Introduction
Latin American leaders have extended their congratulations to Cardinal Robert Prevost, now Pope Leon XIV, the 267th Pope and the first American Augustinian to hold the position. The new Pope’s background, including his Latin American roots and progressive upbringing in Chicago, has sparked optimism among regional leaders.
Key Figures and Their Messages
Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico
President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico congratulated Pope Leon XIV on social media, reaffirming her commitment to humanism, peace, and prosperity for the world.
Gustavo Petro, President of Colombia
Colombian President Gustavo Petro expressed hope that Pope Leon XIV’s Latin American heritage and progressive background in Chicago will make him a “great leader for migrant peoples,” offering encouragement to Latin American migrants facing hardships in the United States.
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of Brazil
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva emphasized the importance of solidarity, humanism, and love for one’s neighbor in his message, hoping that Pope Leon XIV will continue the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
Javier Milei, President of Argentina
Argentine President Javier Milei shared an enigmatic message alongside an AI-generated image of a pope with a lion’s head, referencing Pope Leon XIV’s chosen name.
Daniel Noboa, President of Ecuador
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa welcomed Pope Leon XIV with hope, expressing the desire for his words to provide comfort and guidance during uncertain times.
Santiago Peña, President of Paraguay
Paraguayan President Santiago Peña conveyed his joy over Pope Leon XIV’s appointment, expressing the hope that the new Pope’s guidance will bring hope, dialogue, and unity in a time of need for Christian values.
Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement expressing the hope that Pope Leon XIV’s papacy will usher in a new era of spiritual renewal, justice, and inter-people connection amid global challenges such as wars, the resurgence of fascism, and the erosion of international balance based on law and full humanity values.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is the newly elected Pope? The new Pope is Leon XIV, whose birth name is Robert Prevost. He is the 267th Pope and the first American Augustinian to hold the position.
- What are Latin American leaders’ expectations for Pope Leon XIV? Latin American leaders hope that Pope Leon XIV’s background, including his Latin American roots and progressive upbringing in Chicago, will make him a strong advocate for migrant peoples and promote humanism, solidarity, and love for one’s neighbor.
- How do regional leaders view Pope Leon XIV’s predecessor, Pope Francis? Regional leaders view Pope Francis as a champion of peace, social justice, environmental protection, interfaith dialogue, and respect for human diversity. They hope Pope Leon XIV will continue these principles.
