Inspection of Embassy Vatican, Vatican City (ISP-1-02-14)
Embassy Vatican deals diplomatically with the world?s smallest city-state, whose leader, the Pope, exercises immense influence throughout the world, often affecting U.S. policy objectives. The Vatican and the United States share concern for the Balkans, the Middle East, Africa, and for international human rights, population and UN social issues. The papacy also follows closely and speaks publicly on important issues such as the war in Afghanistan and terrorism. Embassy Vatican?s priority goal is maintaining a constructive relationship with the Vatican leadership and effectively advocating U.S. policy positions. Embassy Vatican has extensive reporting and representational responsibilities. However, its public diplomacy and its analytical reporting activities seem less focused and would benefit from a more structured approach. Embassy Vatican?s efforts to promote U.S. commercial interests are laudable, but the recent Independence Day event was lavish and some fundraising for social events was inappropriate. Embassy Vatican relies on Embassy Rome for administrative, security, and public affairs support. Embassy Vatican handles its own procurement, motor pool, maintenance and gardening, and management controls are adequate. This division of administrative services between the two missions works well.
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