New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended heartfelt congratulations to Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected spiritual head of the global Catholic Church. In a message reflecting India’s respect for interfaith harmony and global cooperation, the Prime Minister expressed the Indian people’s warm regards and hope for continued collaboration with the Vatican under the new leadership.

“On behalf of the people of India, I extend my warmest congratulations and best wishes to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. He assumes this sacred responsibility at a time when the world deeply needs the values of peace, unity, compassion, and selfless service,” Prime Minister Modi said in a social media message on Friday.

The Prime Minister also reiterated India’s commitment to fostering strong ties with the Vatican and promoting shared ideals in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, was elected on Thursday as the 267th Pontiff of the Catholic Church. A member of the Augustinian Order, he becomes the first Pope hailing from the United States. His election marks a historic moment for the global Christian community and opens a new chapter for the Vatican’s engagement with the world.