By Hollie Younger / Staff writer, with CNA
President William Lai (賴清德) today congratulated Pope Leo XIV on the first anniversary of his election, on behalf of the Taiwanese government and people.
Taiwan would continue to maintain cross-strait peace, guided by the principles of freedom and human dignity, under the “Four Pillars of Peace” action plan, Lai said, referring to a plan he announced in his inauguration speech on May 20, 2024.
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevos from Chicago, the first US pope, was elected by the Conclave on May 8 last year as the 267th pope, designated Pope Leo XIV.
Photo: AP
Lai said that he and the people of Taiwan are deeply grateful to the Holy See for its efforts to build bridges among all of humanity and between nations, ensure that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard and promote an enduring culture of peace.
At a time when the world is facing instability and turmoil, the Holy See strives to serve as a model for the world, he added.
Taiwan would continue to deepen its relationship with the Holy See and work together to help the world’s most vulnerable people, he said.
Lai expressed confidence that Pope Leo XIV would lead the Catholic Church and guide humanity towards hope, reconciliation, fraternity and peace, while wishing him every success in his mission.
The Holy See is one of Taiwan’s 12 diplomatic allies.