South African President Cyril Ramaphosa extended warm congratulations to Cardinal Robert Prevost on his groundbreaking election as Pope Leo XIV, the 267 pontiff of the Catholic Church and the first U.S.-born leader to ascend to the papacy.
In a heartfelt statement, Ramaphosa framed the historic moment as a beacon of hope, urging the new Pope emphasis on peace to “rise above the dark plumes of conflict shadowing our world.”
He lauded Leo XIV’s early focus on unity and social justice as a tribute to the legacy of the late Pope Francis, whose reforms reshaped the Church global mission.
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres echoed this sentiment, calling the election a “profound spiritual milestone” amid escalating global crises.
In a formal statement, Guterres underscored urgent need for moral leadership advocating human dignity and reconciliation, pledging to strengthen UN partnership with the Holy See to advance a “just and sustainable future for all.”
His remarks concluded with poignant nod to Leo XIV’s inaugural plea: “May peace be with all the world.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hailed the election as pivotal moment for the Church 1.3 billion followers, particularly during the 2025 Jubilee Year—a time of spiritual renewal.
Rubio emphasised United States commitment to deepening ties with the Holy See, celebrating the historic significance of the first American pontiff.
“The papacy carries a sacred duty,” he stated, “and we pray for His Holiness to lead with wisdom and grace.”
Pope Leo XIV, born in Chicago and holding dual U.S.-Peruvian citizenship, brings unique global perspective to the Vatican.
The 69-year-old former missionary, who served as a bishop in Peru and later oversaw bishop appointments worldwide, delivered his first address from St. Peter’s Basilica to tens of thousands of faithful, vowing to champion peace and continue Francis progressive reforms.
His multicultural upbringing and administrative expertise position him as a bridge-builder in a divided world—a mission now amplified by leaders across continents.
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