PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 25, 2026
Islamic Supreme Council of Canada Delegation Strengthens Christian-Muslim Relations
During Historic Visit to Vatican City
22-Member Canadian Muslim Delegation Meets Vatican Officials, Participates in General
Audience with Pope Leo XIV, and Explores Rome’s Historic Landmarks
Calgary, Alberta, Canada — October 25, 2026
The Islamic Supreme Council of Canada (ISCC) is pleased to announce the successful completion of its historic delegation visit to Rome and Vatican City from October 19 to 22, 2026. The visit marked another significant milestone in the Council’s ongoing commitment to promoting interfaith dialogue, mutual understanding, religious harmony, and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths.
The 22-member delegation, representing various cities across Canada, travelled to Rome to strengthen relationships with the leadership of the Roman Catholic Church and explore opportunities for continued cooperation between Christian and Muslim communities.
The delegation was led by Prof. Imam Syed Badiuddin Soharwardy, Chairman of the Islamic Supreme Council of Canada, who has actively promoted Christian-Muslim dialogue and interfaith cooperation in Canada and internationally for several decades.
The four-day visit included important meetings with Vatican officials, participation in the General Audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, visits to religious and educational institutions, and sightseeing at some of Rome’s most celebrated historical landmarks.
1. Meeting at the Pontifical Institute for Arabic and Islamic Studies (PISAI)
On Tuesday, October 20, 2026, the delegation visited the Pontifical Institute for Arabic and Islamic Studies (PISAI) in Rome.
2. Meeting with the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue at the Vatican
On the afternoon of October 20, 2026, the delegation visited the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue of the Holy See, the Vatican department responsible for promoting understanding, respect, and cooperation between the Catholic Church and followers of other religions. The ISCC representatives expressed their sincere appreciation for the warm reception and
meaningful discussions.
One of the most memorable moments of the visit took place on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, when the delegation participated in the General Audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican.
4. Continuing a Historic Relationship: Previous Vatican Visit in 2017
This visit also built upon the Islamic Supreme Council of Canada’s earlier engagement with the Vatican.
5. In 2017, Prof. Imam Syed Badiuddin Soharwardy visited Vatican City and had the opportunity to meet Pope Francis.
6. Exploring Rome’s Historic Landmarks and Cultural Heritage
