King Charles III has joined world and religious leaders in congratulating the new Pope Leo XIV on the pontiff’s first full day as leader of the Catholic Church.
The first ever American pope’s election has drawn good wishes from U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer.
The 267th pope’s first public appearance in Rome on Thursday following the secret conclave meeting of cardinals prompted an outpouring of joy from the huge crowds gathered in St Peter’s Square.
On Friday, Buckingham Palace said the King sent a private message to Pope Leo XIV, congratulating him on his election.
Charles sent his and the Queen’s most sincere good wishes for his pontificate, a palace spokesperson added.
Starmer on Thursday hailed the election of the first U.S. pope as a “momentous moment” and said that he looks “forward to meeting the Holy Father and continuing to work closely with the Catholic Church.”
“The election of Pope Leo XIV is a deeply profound moment of joy for Catholics in the United Kingdom and globally, and begins a new chapter for the leadership of the Church and in the world,” Starmer added.
“Pope Leo is the first American Pope. This is a momentous moment.” (dpa/NAN)
