World Leaders Congratulate Pope Leo XIV, First American Pontiff in Catholic Church History

World leaders have extended their congratulations to Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, following his historic election as the first American pontiff in the Catholic Church’s 2,000-year history.

The Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, welcomed the new pope’s election, highlighting the UAE’s ongoing commitment to interfaith harmony. 

“We in the UAE deeply appreciate the Vatican’s role in promoting dialogue and peace among nations and faiths, and we look forward to working together with His Holiness to advance a global message of coexistence, tolerance and shared humanity,” he wrote on X.

The announcement of Pope Leo’s election came as white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel earlier today, confirming the successful outcome of the papal conclave following the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88 last month.

In the United States, President Donald Trump praised the new pontiff, calling his election “a Great Honor for our Country.” Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump said, “It is such an honour to realise that he is the first American Pope… I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!”

In Europe, newly elected German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in a statement: “Through your role, you provide hope and guidance to millions of believers around the world in these challenging times.”

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun also sent a message of goodwill: “We pray to God to grant him health, wellness and wisdom to lead the Church in this important phase of its history… and to promote dialogue between different religions and cultures.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog called for greater interfaith collaboration: “We look forward to enhancing the relationship between Israel and the Holy See, and strengthening the friendship between Jews and Christians… May your papacy be one of building bridges and understanding between all faiths and peoples.”

From Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the Vatican for its support, expressing hope for continued moral and spiritual backing amid the country’s ongoing war with Russia. “At this decisive moment for our country, we hope for the continued moral and spiritual support of the Vatican in Ukraine’s efforts to restore justice and achieve a lasting peace,” he wrote on X.

The new pope is expected to deliver his first public address to the faithful in St Peter’s Square later today.

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