Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli has been officially appointed as the new apostolic nuncio to the Republic of Croatia by Pope Francis XIV. The announcement was made on March 13, shortly before noon, by the Apostolic Nunciature in Croatia and the Holy See Press Office. Girelli succeeds his predecessor after a significant tenure in diplomatic service, having represented the Vatican in various countries including India and Nepal.

Born on March 13, 1953, in Predore, Bergamo, Girelli was ordained as a priest on June 17, 1978, and was incardinated in the Diocese of Bergamo. He has been a part of the Vatican's diplomatic service since 1987, with experience in nunciatures in Cameroon and New Zealand, as well as in the Holy See's State Secretariat in the Department of Relations with States. His extensive diplomatic experience is anticipated to benefit his new role in Croatia, where he will continue to represent the interests of the Holy See.

Girelli's appointment signals a continued commitment by the Vatican to engage with the Croatian Catholic community and support its pastoral missions. Given the historical and cultural significance of Croatia within the Catholic Church, his role is expected to play a crucial part in fostering relationships between the Holy See and the local church, as he focuses on promoting peace and unity as highlighted in messages from previous nuncios.