Britain’s King Charles III has congratulated Pope Leo XIV on the first anniversary of his election, reaffirming the United Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Holy See and collaborating on global challenges including climate change and peacebuilding.
The message was contained in a pictorial statement shared on the X handle of the British Embassy to the Holy See.
The caption accompanying the statement read: “His Majesty The King has sent a message of congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on the first anniversary of his election, reflecting upon the enduring ties between the United Kingdom and the Holy See.”
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In the message signed “Charles R,” the monarch said he and Queen Camilla extended “heartfelt congratulations and warmest good wishes” to the pontiff and the Holy See on the occasion of the anniversary of his pontificate.
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King Charles recalled his meeting with Pope Leo XIV during the royal couple’s State Visit to the Holy See in October 2025, describing it as “a moment of great significance” both personally and for relations between the two nations and faiths.
“This day serves as a valued opportunity to reflect upon the enduring friendship between our nations,” the King stated.
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“My wife and I recall, with great fondness, the meeting with Your Holiness during our State Visit to the Holy See in October 2025; a moment of great significance for us both personally and for the relationship between our respective nations and faiths.”
The British monarch also praised the Pope’s advocacy on climate issues, noting that humanity has a shared responsibility to protect the planet for future generations.
“As we face the shared challenges of our time, particularly those concerning the climate and the preservation of our natural world, I find hope in your ongoing advocacy for addressing climate change as both a moral and spiritual issue,” he said.
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“We are all guardians of our precious planet with an obligation to future generations, in harmony with God’s creation.”
King Charles further expressed hope that religion and science would continue to inspire “enlightened and transformative action” in the pursuit of peace.
He added that the United Kingdom remained hopeful of continued cooperation with the Holy See towards achieving “meaningful and lasting solutions” to global challenges.
“My wife and I assure your Holiness of our prayers for peace, prosperity and wellbeing in the year ahead,” the statement added.
