S’pore leaders send congratulatory letters to Pope Francis

SINGAPORE: President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong have written congratulatory letters to Pope Francis, who has been elected as the Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church.

In his letter, President Tan said he is confident that Pope Francis will build on the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, to be a beacon of leadership and faith to Catholics in Singapore and all over the world.

He said the Catholic community in Singapore has played a key role in strengthening inter—faith dialogue and promoting tolerance and religious harmony over the years.

Dr Tan added that the Singapore government will work closely with the newly ordained Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh to continue the good work of the Catholic Church in Singapore.

In his letter, Prime Minister Lee said relations between Singapore and the Holy See are warm and growing.

He said the Catholic Church and community in Singapore have fostered strong links with other religious groups, promoted interfaith dialogue and strengthened religious harmony.

Mr Lee said he looks forward to working closely with Pope Francis, the Apostolic Nuncio in Singapore Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, and newly appointed Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh to strengthen the relationship.

— CNA/al