Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, has conveyed his “sincere felicitations and best wishes” from India to Pope Leo XIV following his election as new Leader of the Catholic Church, which has more than one (1) billion followers.
PM Modi said, “His leadership of the Catholic Church comes at a moment of profound significance in advancing the ideals of peace.”
Pope Leo XIV was elected new Sovereign of the Vatican City State on Thursday 8 May, 2025 after almost two (2) days of voting by 133 Cardinals inside the enclosed Sistine Chapel.
The new Pope succeeds Pope Francis, who passed at the age of eighty-eight (88) on Easter Monday, 21 April, 2025.
White Smoke billowed through the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, indicating a new Pope has been elected after black smoke, which indicated no Pope elected, was seen twice on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning.
Prime Minister Modi wrote: “I convey sincere felicitations and best wishes from the people of India to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. His leadership of the Catholic Church comes at a moment of profound significance in advancing the ideals of peace, harmony, solidarity and service. India remains committed to continued dialogue and engagement with the Holy See to further our shared values.”
