Pope awards Vatican’s highest diplomatic honor to Iran’s ambassador
Pope awards Vatican’s highest diplomatic honor to Iran’s ambassador
M.U.H
13/05/202634
London: Pope Leo XIV has awarded the Vatican’s highest diplomatic distinction, the Order of Pius IX, to Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Holy See Mohammad-Hossein Mokhtari in recognition of his efforts to promote peace, dialogue, and bilateral relations.
The award ceremony was held on Tuesday in the presence of senior Vatican officials and ambassadors accredited to the Holy See. During the event, officials praised the Iranian embassy’s activities in advancing peaceful coexistence, wisdom, tolerance, and interfaith dialogue.
Established in 1847 by Pope Pius IX, the Order of Pius IX is among the Vatican’s most prestigious papal honors and is typically granted to ambassadors and prominent figures who contribute to diplomacy, peace, and international understanding.
In the official decree, Pope Leo XIV expressed appreciation for Ambassador Mokhtari’s services in strengthening ties with the Holy See.
The award comes amid ongoing global conflicts and rising extremism that continue to challenge international peace and stability.
Iran’s embassy at the Vatican has organized interfaith meetings and promoted dialogue among religions as part of efforts aimed at encouraging mutual understanding and opposing violence and war.
