World Leaders Acclaim Election of Pope Leo XIV: New Figurhead of Catholic Realm Recognized Globally
Friday, May 9, 2025: A New Era Dawns - Meet Pope Leo XIV
Ring, ring, ring! Across the globe, church bells tolled in celebration, heralding the election of the new pope, Leo XIV. From Madrid to Manila, Jerusalem to Mexico City, joyous peals echoed the Vatican's announcement. World leaders swiftly extended their warm congratulations to the successor of Francis.
Hope Blossoms Worldwide
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez penned a message of hope: "May your reign inspire dialogue and bolster the defense of human rights globally," he expressed on Twitter. Germany's fresh chancellor hailed a pope who offers a beacon of direction and hope to countless believers. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky looks to Leo XIV to continue bolstering moral support for his nation. As a leader, he wields influence over a billion faithful souls.
Check out the full report in the video above
The Man Behind the Mitre
Born as Robert Francis Prevost in the United States, Pope Leo XIV, our 267th Bishop of Rome, made history as the first American pope[2][4][5]. With a career spent navigating the intricacies of the Catholic Church, including roles in international diplomacy and ecclesiastical governance[3], the newly crowned pontiff brings a wealth of experience to the highest post.
French President Emmanuel Macron shared his optimism for the new pope, affirming, "In Pope Leo XIV, we see a leader who can strengthen our humanity and continue to foster unity across religious lines."
The French government has pledged to support Pope Leo XIV's efforts to address climate change, honoring the commitment made at the Paris Agreement in 2015.
In a joint press conference, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Pope Leo XIV expressed their hope to renew diplomatic relations between the Vatican and Italy, focusing on religion's role in strengthening politics and general news.
Holding a press conference in front of the Eiffel Tower, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez urged global leaders to invest in peace-building initiatives, inspired by the new pope's stance towards human rights and dialogue.
