Vatican City: HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani sent Thursday a cable of congratulations to His Holiness Pope Francis of the Vatican, on the occasion of the National Day of the Vatican City State.

According to Qatar News Agency, the congratulatory message from HH the Amir underscores the diplomatic ties and goodwill between Qatar and the Vatican. The National Day of the Vatican City State is a significant event celebrated annually, marking the sovereignty and independence of the smallest recognized independent state in the world.