The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on Sunday, May 18, 2025, represented President John Mahama and Ghana at the inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV.
The ceremony took place at St Peter’s Square in Vatican City, attracting delegations from several countries to witness the formal beginning of a new papacy.
The Minister described his participation as a profound honour, adding he is eternally grateful for the Supreme Pontiff’s blessings and warmth.
In a post on Facebook, the North Tongu MP extended warm greetings and well wishes from President Mahama to the Pope.
Also in attendance were Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, were among the heads of state present, alongside dignitaries such as Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, and Gabon’s President, Brice Oligui Nguema.
The United States sent Vice-President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as its official observers.
Pope Leo XIV was elected on Thursday, May 8, 2025, after intense deliberation in the Sistine Chapel, making him the first American Pontiff.
The 69-year-old Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Prevost emerged as the chosen leader of 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
He was elected by 133 cardinals representing the global Church.
Before his priesthood journey, Prevost worked humble jobs, including delivering pizzas in Chicago.
