New York, 19 May 2025

Excellencies, distinguished ambassadors, ladies and gentlemen,

It is a pleasure to address you today, as we gather to celebrate the election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. I extend my gratitude to His Excellency Archbishop Gabriele Caccia for organizing this event and to each and every one of you for your presence here today.

The election of a new Pope is an occasion for renewal, not only for Catholics but for all who seek a world of greater justice, solidarity, and peace. Pope Leo, in his first days as the Successor of Peter, has expressed his deep commitment to building bridges, underscoring the need to meet, dialogue and negotiate.[1] The Holy See reaffirms its unwavering support for the mission of the United Nations - to be a forum where States engage in dialogue, bringing forth the voices of their peoples, and where solutions to humanity’s greatest challenges are forged.

In a world marked by division, conflict, and pressing global issues - from climate change to migration and Artificial Intelligence - Pope Leo calls us to embrace a diplomacy of encounter. This is a diplomacy that listens with humility, acts with compassion, and seeks the common good above all. The Holy See, under his leadership, pledges to work alongside you, the representatives of the nations, to promote human dignity, protect the vulnerable, and build bridges where mistrust might otherwise prevail.

Your role as Representatives of your Countries is vital in weaving the fabric of international cooperation. The Holy See recognizes the sacrifices you make to advance peace and justice, often in the face of great complexity. Pope Leo’s vision aligns with this noble pursuit privileging a diplomatic activity based on the pillars of peace, justice and truth.[2] It is thus that the Holy See, committed to truth and justice, will continue to offer its moral voice in defence of the poor and those in need, and in the pursuit of peace and integral human development.

May we, together, respond to the Holy Father’s call and become those who sow peace that will endure through history, not those who reap victims.[3]

Once again, thank you for your presence and your dedication to the service of humanity. May God bless you, your families, and the nations you represent. Let us move forward together, inspired by the hope and vision of Pope Leo.

As we celebrate this new chapter in the life of the Church, I invite you to join me in a toast in honour of Pope Leo XIV, may the Lord preserve him, grant him life and health, make him happy on earth and preserve Him from all evil.

Thank you.

[1] Cfr. Pope Leo XIV, Address to the Participants in the Jubilee of the Oriental Churches, 14 May 2025.

[2] Cfr. Pope Leo XIV, Speech to the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See, 16 May 2025.

[3] Cfr. Pope Leo XIV, Message on X, 15 May 2025.