MFA Press Statement: Congratulatory letter from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to His Holiness Pope Francis

14 March 2013

Your Holiness,

On behalf of the Government and people of Singapore, I offer my warmest congratulations on your election as Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church.

Relations between Singapore and the Holy See are warm and growing. The appointment of an Apostolic Nuncio to Singapore three years ago was a significant milestone in our bilateral relations, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2011. We have worked well together to advance equity and development, and promote peace and religious harmony. The Catholic Church and community in Singapore have fostered strong links with other religious groups, promoted interfaith dialogue and strengthened religious harmony. It has also long served the less privileged in our society, particularly through education.

I look forward to working closely with Your Holiness, the Apostolic Nuncio in Singapore Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, and our newly appointed Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh to strengthen our relationship. I wish Your Holiness all the best in your new role.

Please accept, Your Holiness, the assurances of my highest consideration.

LEE HSIEN LOONG

His Holiness Pope Francis

The Holy See