In a message released this Thursday, addressed to Leo XIV, João Lourenço congratulates the new Pope on his election, highlighting that the choice “was the consensual result” of the reflection made by prominent figures of the Catholic Church, who recognized in him the qualities necessary to lead Catholics “who surely hope that this essential religious institution will continue to be a reference for humanism”.
The head of state believes that Leo XIV will be able to use his influence to restore peace in the “troubled situations that exist in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and other parts of the world, with the hope of reestablishing harmony and understanding between the peoples and nations of our planet.”
João Lourenço also wished the new Pope a fruitful pontificate filled with “many successes, highlighting the desire for a better and more just world”.
American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, was elected Pope on Thursday after two days of conclave and took the name Leo XIV.
Born in Chicago, United States, he has Spanish ancestry and Peruvian nationality, and belongs to the Order of Saint Augustine.
Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis, who died on April 21 at the age of 88.
