Historic Election: First American Pope, Leo XIV

Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time an American has become pope in the Catholic Church's 2,000-year history. Leaders such as Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi have congratulated him, expressing hopes for peace and compassion during his pontificate.

Cardinal Robert Prevost has made history by becoming the first American elected as pope, taking the name Leo XIV. His election marks a significant moment in the 2,000-year history of the Catholic Church.

Among the first to congratulate him were Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and party leader Rahul Gandhi. Kharge expressed his aspirations for Prevost's pontificate to be characterized by values of peace, amity, and compassion. Similarly, Gandhi conveyed his best wishes for the new pope's leadership to foster global peace and service to humanity.

Pope Leo XIV, aged 69, has an extensive background as a missionary in Peru and currently leads the Vatican's influential office of bishops. His election has been warmly welcomed by both the Catholic community in India and around the world.

(With inputs from agencies.)