Ghana’s Foreign Minister Represents Nation at Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration in Vatican

Accra, Ghana – Top Knowledge TV | International Affairs Desk

Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, represented the nation at the historic Inauguration Mass of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV held at Saint Peter’s Square in Vatican City. The ceremony, which took place on May 18, 2025, formally marked the beginning of the new pontiff’s papacy.

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, becomes the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first American to ascend to the papal seat. His election follows the resignation of Pope Francis due to advanced age and health-related concerns.

The grand ceremony was attended by an estimated 200,000 people, including heads of state, government representatives, religious leaders, and dignitaries from around the world. In his inaugural homily, Pope Leo XIV called for renewed global efforts toward peace, reconciliation, and solidarity, with special emphasis on addressing ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises across the globe.

Hon. Ablakwa, in representing President John Dramani Mahama and the people of Ghana, conveyed the nation's congratulations and goodwill to the new Pope. He highlighted Ghana’s appreciation for the Vatican’s continued engagement with Africa, particularly in areas of peace-building, education, and healthcare.

Speaking after the event, Ablakwa noted:

"Ghana values its long-standing relationship with the Vatican. This inauguration symbolizes not only a new chapter in Catholic leadership but also a reaffirmation of our shared values — peace, compassion, and dignity for all people."

The Vatican maintains diplomatic relations with Ghana, and successive Ghanaian governments have consistently acknowledged the significant contributions of the Catholic Church to national development, especially in education, healthcare, and social justice.

Pope Leo XIV’s papacy is expected to focus on ecclesiastical reform, youth engagement, and interfaith dialogue—areas where Ghana has also made strategic diplomatic and developmental investments.

Ghana’s participation in the inauguration reaffirms its role as an active member of the international community committed to multilateral cooperation, religious tolerance, and global peace.