Bernard Dompok in line as Malaysia's first ambassador to the Vatican

Tan Sri Bernard Dompok is currently in line to be the country’s first ambassador to the Vatican.

The former federal minister is expected to begin his duties in January, 2016 in Rome once approval is received from the Vatican.

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman said the appointment was agreed upon by the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, as reported by the Star Online today.

Anifah said that Dompok will also be the ambassador for Malta and Albania once his appointment was agreed upon.

He added that Dompok was chosen as the best candidate as he had been on several official visits to the Vatican.

Dompok had met the pope twice as he joined Najib’s enterouge in 2011 and former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in 2002.