Iran Extends Congratulations to Pope Leo XIV, Expresses Hopes for Advancement of Peace and Justice

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has conveyed his congratulations to the newly elected Pope Leo XIV. Araghchi expressed optimism that the new papacy will enhance the influence of religious values in fostering justice, peace, and dialogue amid global challenges.

In a message sent on Friday after the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Araghchi extended his “sincere congratulations.”

In an era marked by widespread injustice, cruelty, poverty, inequality, conflict, and violence, the global interest in the election of a new pope signifies a collective aspiration for religion and its teachings to uphold high moral and human values, while striving to curb the prevalence of moral vices within humanity, he wrote.

In a historic decision, Pope Leo XIV, elected on Thursday, marks a milestone as the first American to assume leadership of the Catholic Church in its 2,000-year history. Hailing from Chicago, the 69-year-old dedicated a significant portion of his ecclesiastical journey to service in Peru before taking the helm of the Vatican’s influential Dicastery for Bishops.

During his initial appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he addressed the faithful with the words, “Peace be with you,” emphasizing themes of peace, dialogue, and missionary efforts in his remarks.

In a heartfelt message, Araghchi expressed condolences on the passing of Pope Francis, who served as the head of the Catholic Church. “We pray for the soul of Pope Francis,” Araghchi stated, underscoring the hope that the new leader of the Catholic faithful will seize the opportunity to advance spirituality, ethics, and justice. He emphasized the significance of fostering tolerance among religions, ethnicities, and nations, alongside safeguarding peace and tranquility. The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88.

Araghchi, reiterating Iran’s enduring commitment to promoting ethical values and human rights grounded in religious teachings, highlighted Tehran’s readiness to strengthen relations with the Vatican.

The Islamic Republic of Iran has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to strengthening ties with the Vatican, highlighting its dedication to promoting morality and human dignity globally. The nation has pledged to continue advancing interfaith dialogue and supporting global peace initiatives.

Tehran has expressed its willingness to engage in discussions, collaborate, and cooperate with the Vatican on this matter, according to the final statement.

Pope Leo XIV, affiliated with the Order of St. Augustine, was chosen by 135 cardinals during a secretive conclave that ensued after the passing of Pope Francis.