Egypt Daily News – The election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as the new head of the Catholic Church, now Pope Leo XIV, has been met with widespread international praise and hope. His leadership is expected to strengthen the Church’s role in promoting peace, dialogue, and understanding across cultures and religions. In his first address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on Thursday, May 8, 2025, he said:
“Peace be upon you all, dear brothers and sisters. I offer a greeting of peace to your families, to all of you, wherever you are. Peace be upon you.”
These words set the tone for what many hope will be a papacy centered on unity and compassion. Leaders from around the world responded warmly to his election.
United States: Former President Donald Trump congratulated Pope Leo XIV on Truth Social, calling it “a great honor” that the first American has been elected pope. He added that he looked forward to meeting the pope soon. This message suggests a positive shift in Trump’s stance toward the Vatican, following earlier disagreements with Pope Francis.
Germany: Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed the new pope, saying that the papacy offers hope and direction to millions during challenging times. His remarks underlined the role of the Vatican as a global spiritual voice.
Poland: President Andrzej Duda, a devout Catholic, expressed his country’s readiness to deepen its strong ties with the Catholic Church, emphasizing shared values, responsibility for the common good, and the need to strengthen peace.
European Union: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen extended her sincere congratulations, praising the pope’s commitment to peace. She said his leadership could inspire the world with wisdom and resolve.
Ukraine: President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hope that the Vatican would continue offering moral and spiritual support to Ukraine as it seeks justice and lasting peace amid conflict with Russia.
Russia: President Vladimir Putin voiced confidence in maintaining constructive dialogue with the Vatican and expressed hope for continued cooperation based on shared Christian values, a significant statement amid current global tensions.
France: President Emmanuel Macron called the election a historic moment for the Church and millions of believers. He sent a fraternal letter to Pope Leo XIV and to Catholics in France and around the world.
United Kingdom: Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the election as a joyful and historic occasion for Catholics in the UK and globally, signaling a new chapter for the Church.
United Arab Emirates: President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed offered his congratulations, wishing the pope success in promoting coexistence, interfaith dialogue, and global peace.
United Nations: Secretary-General António Guterres said the world urgently needs stronger voices for peace, justice, and compassion. He expressed eagerness to continue long-standing cooperation between the UN and the Holy See, saying the pope’s first words reflect these shared values.
Media and public response: Global news outlets quickly covered the event, broadcasting the sight of white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel and the pope’s appearance to thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Images of people waving national flags in celebration of the first American pope were widely shared.
On social media, users reacted with enthusiasm to Pope Leo XIV’s first message. One user commented, “The pope’s opening words give us hope—his focus on peace, dialogue, and love speaks to all people.”
With over 1.4 billion Catholics around the world, the election of Pope Leo XIV is being seen as a pivotal moment for the Church and for global relations rooted in compassion and shared humanity.
A brief overview of Pope Leo XIV’s background before his election:
Pope Leo XIV was born as Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, Illinois, in 1955. He is the first American in history to be elected as pope, marking a significant moment for the Catholic Church.
He joined the Order of St. Augustine and was ordained a priest in 1982. His early ministry took him to Latin America, especially Peru, where he served for many years as a missionary, bishop, and later as the head of the Augustinians worldwide. His deep connection with the Latin American Church gave him a unique perspective on social justice, poverty, and intercultural ministry.
In 2023, he was appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops by Pope Francis, one of the most influential roles in the Vatican. In that position, he was responsible for overseeing the selection of bishops around the world, demonstrating his broad experience and trust within the Church’s leadership.
Known for his calm demeanor, multilingual skills (English, Spanish, French, and Italian), and focus on humility and service, he is regarded as a bridge-builder. His background reflects a blend of American pragmatism, missionary experience, and Roman Curia leadership, making him a natural candidate for leading the Church during a time of global challenges.
