On 25 April, Ambassador Niels Lorijn attended an official dinner hosted by H.E. Ahmed El-Ansary, Ambassador of the Republic of Egypt in Warsaw, on the occasion of the visit to Poland of His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, the leader of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria.

Guests included the Apostolic Nuncio and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, H.E. Archbishop Antonio Guido Filipazzi, as well as ambassadors from various countries, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the Polish government and other distinguished guests.

Ambassador El-Ansary began his speech by offering his heartfelt condolences to the Catholic community in Poland and around the world on the passing of Pope Francis, describing him as a voice for peace, love, and mercy, and wishing him eternal rest. He welcomed His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, emphasising that his visit transcends a mere pastoral trip, reflecting the deep and historic ties between Egypt and Poland. The ambassador also highlighted Egypt’s unique status as role model of peaceful coexistence between religions, respect for human dignity and capacity for peace.

For his part, His Holiness Pope Tawadros II expressed his heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the warm reception, and spoke about Egypt’s spiritual dimension, noting that the country is blessed in the Scriptures, as it sheltered the Holy Family, becoming a symbol of protection, hope, and divine blessing. In a touching gesture, His Holiness distributed commemorative gifts to the ambassadors and diplomats present. The gifts symbolise the Holy Family’s journey into Egypt, highlighting the sacredness of the land and its historical role as a refuge and a source of blessing across the ages.

There are an estimated 10 million Coptic Orthodox Christians in the world, roughly 90% of whom live in Egypt.