Cyprus News Agency

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez congratulated the entire Catholic Church on the election of Pope Leo XIV, stating: “I hope your papacy contributes to strengthening dialogue and defending human rights in a world in need of hope and unity.”

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola expressed hope that Pope Leo XIV’s leadership would be a beacon of hope for all believers: “May your wisdom and strength continue to inspire the world as you work to build bridges, unity, and peace.”

Polish President Andrzej Duda offered heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the Polish nation for Pope Leo XIV’s election to the See of Peter.

Duda said: “This is a deeply emotional moment for the Catholic Church and the world. In Poland, we live this with great emotion and hope—as a nation historically tied to the Church of Christ and the Bishop of Rome by a unique spiritual bond. Please accept the assurance that the Republic of Poland is ready to further strengthen these ties for our shared values, common good, and global peace.”

Irish Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Defence Simon Harris congratulated Cardinal Prevost on being elected the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. “This is a significant moment for Pope Leo XIV and for the millions of Catholics now looking to him for guidance and leadership,” he said.

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský wrote: “I wish Pope Leo XIV success in guiding the Catholic Church and the Holy See—not only in uniting believers but also in fostering peace. His election, on the 80th anniversary of the end of one of the darkest wars, is symbolic and represents hope for the world.”

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election as Bishop of Rome and wished him wisdom and strength in his sacred duty.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warmly congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election as head of the Catholic Church and wished that his papacy be guided by wisdom and strength while inspiring the world with his commitment to peace and dialogue.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election to the See of Peter and the beginning of his papacy.

Zelensky said: “Ukraine deeply values the Vatican’s consistent position in defending international law, condemning Russia’s military aggression, and protecting the rights of innocent civilians. At this critical time, we hope for the Vatican’s continued spiritual and moral support in our efforts to restore justice and achieve lasting peace. I wish Pope Leo XIV both spiritual and physical wisdom, inspiration, and strength as he fulfills his noble mission.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog congratulated Cardinal Robert Prevost on becoming Pope Leo XIV and sent his heartfelt wishes from Jerusalem.

Herzog said: “We look forward to strengthening ties between Israel and the Holy See and enhancing friendship between Jews and Christians in the Holy Land and across the world. May your papacy be a time of building bridges and understanding among all faiths and peoples. We pray for the safe and immediate return of hostages held in Gaza and for a new era of peace in our region and beyond.”

French President Emmanuel Macron called the election a historic moment for the Catholic Church and millions of believers, stating: “I send fraternal greetings to Pope Leo XIV and all Catholics in France and around the world. May May 8 mark the beginning of a papacy of peace and hope.”

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said he was delighted by the election of the new Pope and wrote: “I wish him great strength, wisdom, and courage in his mission to serve God, the Church, and all people of goodwill. May his papacy bring hope, peace, and understanding to the world.”

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof highlighted the swift election as wonderful news: “A special moment for the global Catholic community and beyond. I warmly congratulate Pope Leo XIV and wish him strength and wisdom in this important and demanding role.”

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever wrote: “Much wisdom and strength to Pope Leo XIV. Do good, and you shall be praised.”

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha congratulated Pope Leo XIV as the 267th successor of Peter and the first American Pope.

Sybiha said: “A historic moment for the Catholic Church and for all who value peace, dignity, and humanity. His Holiness’s election gives us hope. We trust in his moral leadership to help end the war and achieve just peace. We appreciate the Holy See’s support and look forward to His Holiness’s future Apostolic Visit to Ukraine. It would mean a great deal to our people who continue to defend freedom and human dignity at great cost. We will welcome him with open hearts and deep respect. May his mission be wise and his path fruitful.”

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the election a moment of great joy for Catholics in the UK and worldwide, saying: “I look forward to meeting the Pope as soon as possible.”

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas congratulated Pope Leo XIV and stated: “Your unique role in global diplomacy will be essential in fostering dialogue, intercultural understanding, and a just and lasting peace. I look forward to deepening EU–Vatican relations.”

French Prime Minister François Bayrou wrote: “A French father, an Italian mother, an American from Chicago, 20 years in Peru, then Rome, taking the name Leo, a Pope of the poor and workers: for 1.5 billion believers, a hope of peace and brotherhood beyond borders. My best wishes!”

US Vice President JD Vance congratulated Pope Leo XIV on becoming the first American Pope, saying: “I’m sure millions of American Catholics and other Christians will pray for his success in leading the Church. May God bless him!”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wrote: “I congratulate Pope Leo XIV and the global Catholic community. I wish success to the first Pope from the United States in promoting hope and reconciliation among all faiths.”

Montenegro Prime Minister Milojko Spajić extended congratulations to Pope Leo XIV and Catholics in Montenegro upon his election as the 267th successor of Peter: “I believe he will lead the Church with determination and wisdom and be a model of kindness, compassion, and justice for all humanity.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said: “We congratulate His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on being elected the 267th successor of Saint Peter and the first American Pope. May God grant him wisdom, courage, and grace in his sacred mission.”

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon congratulated Pope Leo XIV, saying: “On behalf of New Zealand, I extend my best wishes as he begins this important mission. As we saw with Pope Francis, the papacy has immense power to unite people worldwide in the pursuit of justice and peace.”