
Following the election of the new Pope, Leo XIV, in the Conclave held in the Sistine Chapel, world leaders from around the world have expressed their congratulations to the new leader of the Catholic Church, emphasizing hope for a papacy that will continue to promote peace, dialogue and social justice.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, congratulated His Holiness in an official statement, expressing his readiness to build on the legacy of cooperation between the UN and the Holy See. “ I congratulate Pope Leo XIV and Catholics around the world. I look forward to strengthening our cooperation for peace and sustainable development ,” said Guterres.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen congratulated Pope Leo XIV, calling him “a spiritual leader who can unite people across borders.” She expressed hope that the Vatican will continue to be a strong voice for the protection of human rights and the environment.
United States President Donald Trump, who attended Pope Francis' funeral, congratulated the new pope in a post on the X platform, calling the election "a moment of hope for billions of believers." He added that he looks forward to working with the Vatican on global issues, including religious freedom and peace.
The President of France, Emmanuel Macron, congratulated His Holiness through an official statement, praising the historic role of the Catholic Church in building bridges between cultures. “ France, as a great daughter of the Church, congratulates Pope Leo XIV and expresses its readiness to collaborate for global peace and solidarity, ” Macron said, citing the strong ties between France and the Vatican.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his congratulations on behalf of the British government, calling Leo XIV's election "a moment of inspiration for believers and non-believers alike." He added that he hopes the Vatican will continue to be a force for unity and justice in a divided world, stressing the importance of interfaith dialogue.
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a congratulatory message through the Kremlin, congratulating the new Pope and expressing respect for the Holy See's role in promoting spiritual and moral values. " Russia hopes to continue the dialogue with the Vatican on issues related to global peace and stability, " his statement said, reflecting an interest in diplomatic relations with the Catholic Church.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was also present at the funeral ceremony of Leo XIV's predecessor, expressed his congratulations, praising the role of the Catholic Church in supporting the Ukrainian people during the war. " I congratulate His Holiness on his holy mission. I hope that the voice of the Vatican will continue to be a call for peace and justice ," Zelenskyy said.
Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, who has had close relations with the Vatican, congratulated the new Pope, stressing the importance of his leadership in a world challenged by conflict and polarization. "Italy is proud to be the home of the Holy See and will support Pope Leo XIV in his mission," she declared.
From the Balkans, the President of Albania, Bajram Begaj, and the President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, expressed their congratulations, appreciating the historical ties between the Albanian Catholic communities and the Vatican. Dom Gjergj Meta, President of the Episcopal Conference of Albania, emphasized the loyalty of Albanian Catholics to the Pope, mentioning their martyrdom throughout history.
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