A Fresh Script for Europe's Reactions to the Papal Election: "A Time for Peace and Guidance"
"May it herald an era of tranquility and optimism"
European leaders shower their congratulations on Pope Leo XIV, hopes rising high for a spiritual and moral leader in these tumultuous times.
Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, representing Germany, has extended his warmest "congrats" to the new pontiff. Steinmeier declared in Berlin, "In times marked by upheaval and daunting global challenges, you, as the successor of Peter, assume a crucial spiritual and moral role." He wished Leo XIV "courage, love, and wisdom." Steinmeier highlights the new Pope's proven track record as a bridge-builder, which he believes will help him cater to the concerns and aspirations of people across the globe.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz has conveyed his heartfelt congratulations. "Through your office, you offer millions around the world hope and guidance during these testing times. Many look up to you as an anchor of justice and reconciliation. In Germany, there's a sense of confidence and high anticipation," Merz stated.
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul pointed out that every Pope is the voice of global Christianity, emphasizing the importance of listening and unity.
The Catholic German Bishops' Conference chairman, Georg Bätzing, described Pope Leo XIV as "a middle-of-the-road, politically savvy, internationally connected, and well-informed individual about the Catholic Church in Germany."
President of the Bundestag Julia Klöckner asserts that Pope Leo XIV will bring "a deep understanding of the demands of our times with his world-facing outlook and extensive international experience." She believes that his background as an Augustinian member enables him to foster unity within the Church.
Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni believes that Leo XIV's words from the balcony are a "powerful call for peace, brotherhood, and responsibility."
The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen desires Leo XIV's pontificate to be guided by "wisdom and strength," expressing optimism that he will utilize his voice in promoting peace, dialogue, and addressing shared values on the global stage.
France's Emmanuel Macron reflects on this as a "historic moment" for the Catholic Church and its many believers, wishing Pope Leo XIV a "pontificate of peace and hope."
United Kingdom's Prime Minister Keir Starmer reflects on the significance of this occasion.
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expects Leo XIV's pontificate to bolster "dialogue and the defense of human rights" in a world in desperate need of hope and unity.
Poland's President Andrzej Duda expressed his sincere congratulations to Pope Leo XIV, on behalf of the Polish nation, hoping that his leadership will inspire and enlighten the Catholic community and assist in bridging gaps.
Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda anticipates Pope Leo XIV to lead the Church with faith, hope, and love.
The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expresses hope for continued support from the Vatican amidst the ongoing need for moral and spiritual backing as they strive for justice and lasting peace.
Russia's President Vladimir Putin envisions the continuation of constructive dialogues and interactions with the Vatican based on Christian values.
Israel's President Isaac Herzog appeals for the immediate and safe return of hostages still held in Gaza, while Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extends his best wishes "to the first Pope from the United States, hoping he will inspire hope and reconciliation among all faiths."
Source: ntv.de, jwu/dpa
- Vatican
- Frank-Walter Steinmeier
- Johann Wadephul
- Friedrich Merz
- Ursula von der Leyen
- Emmanuel Macron
- Andrzej Duda
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy
- Vladimir Putin
- Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, in his congratulatory message, highlighted Pope Leo XIV's proven track record as a bridge-builder, emphasizing the need for unity in a world facing global challenges.
- Pope Leo XIV's inauguration has sparked a wave of optimism among political leaders across the European Union, with France's Emmanuel Macron describing it as a "historic moment" for the Catholic Church.
- The Pope's words from the balcony, according to Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, were a "powerful call for peace, brotherhood, and responsibility."
- In the general-news realm, various political leaders' congratulatory messages were exchanged via whatsapp groups, with discussions on the potential impact of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate on global politics and religion.
