50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between
The Holy See, European Union and
The Council of Europe

Vatican City State joined the Council of Europe on 30 June 1970. In 2020 the Vatican Post Office released a miniature sheet containing two €1.15 stamps to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations. The Treaty of London established the Council of Europe in 1949. It now contains 47 member states as well as five Council Observers and three Assembly Observers. The Holy See's status is as a Council Observer and it is not a member per se. The purpose of the Council is to ensure cooperation among member states. It is not a legislative body but it assists in enforcing the rule of law, democracy, and human rights. Pope Francis addressed the Council in 2014, pledging the Holy See's interest in cooperation on common interests. Representatives from the Holy See participate on the Council's committees. The two stamps contain the flags and logos of the Council and the European Union along with the flag of Vatican City. In addition, Council of Europe buildings and St. Peter's Basilica are depicted on the miniature sheet. Technical Details: Scott Catalogue - 1754 - 1754 Date Issued - 10 November 2020 Face Value - 2 x €1,15 Perforations - 13x13.25 Printing Process - Offset, 4 colors Printer - Cantor (France) Max Printed - 35,000

(Source:Vatican Notes, Volume 69, Number 387, pp. 4-6, 2020 )