On the Commemoration of the Anniversary of Pope Francis’ Election
March 13, 2019
On behalf of the United States Government, I wish to congratulate His Holiness Pope Francis on the sixth anniversary of his election to the papacy. I appreciate his steadfast leadership in promoting peace and advancing religious freedom and human rights around the world. While the U.S.-Vatican friendship dates back to the founding of the United States, this year marks 35 years since the establishment of formal relations. I join millions of Americans in congratulating the Holy Father on this anniversary, and I look forward to continuing the U.S. partnership with the Holy See to address the many challenges our world faces today.