VATICAN CITY - World leaders welcomed the election of Robert Francis Prevost, who, as Pope Leo XIV, becomes the first leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics from the United States.
Tens of thousands cheered as Leo, successor to the late pope Francis, appeared on the balcony of St Peter's Basilica to deliver his first address.
"Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honour to realise that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a great honour for our country," said US President Donald Trump. "I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!"
"This is a historic day for the United States, and we will pray for him as he begins the sacred work of leading the Catholic Church and setting an example for so many, regardless of faith," former US president Barack Obama said, congratulating the "fellow Chicagoan."
President Cyril Ramaphosa also congratulated Pope Leo, saying his early emphasis on peace is a call that resonates with most of humanity and is one that honours the legacy of the late Pope Francis.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he has hope for 'moral' support.
"At this decisive moment for our country, we hope for the continued moral and spiritual support of the Vatican in Ukraine's efforts to restore justice and achieve a lasting peace."
Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas sent his best wishes for success to Pope Leo XIV in continuing his noble work and maintaining the legacy of the late Pope Francis and his peace efforts.
Abbas stressed "the importance of the moral, religious, and political role of the Holy See in defending just causes, first and foremost that of the Palestinian people and their right to freedom and independence."
Russian President Vladimir Putin hoped that "the constructive dialogue and cooperation established between Russia and the Vatican will continue to develop on the basis of the Christian values that unite us."
Israeli President Isaac Herzog said he looks forward to enhancing the relationship between Israel and the Holy See "and strengthening the friendship between Jews and Christians in the Holy Land and around the world.
"May your papacy be one of building bridges and understanding between all faiths and peoples," he said.
France's President Emmanuel Macron highlighted "a historic moment for the Catholic Church and its millions of faithful."
"Through your role, you provide hope and guidance to millions of believers around the world in these challenging times," said German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu said "the election of Pope Leo XIV opens a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church and the values of love, humanity and charity, particularly to the underprivileged that it has consistently projected."
"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," said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.