President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has congratulated the new Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, His Holiness Pope Francis, on his historic election as the 266thSupreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, the first ever from the America's Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina, now Pope Francis, became Pope on March 13, 2013 replacing Pope Benedict XVI who recently resigned.

In her message to the Pope, President Sirleaf, on behalf of Liberia, extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes on the Pope’s victory as the new leader of the Catholic Church.

The President also remarked that as a Jesuit intellectual and a man of great humility, Pope Francis has remained committed to the promotion of peace, compassion for the sick and needy, as well as cautioned many to live the life exemplary of that of Jesus Christ.

The Liberian Leader asserted that the Catholic Church in Liberia remains a strong partner in the development agenda of the country, especially in key areas such as health and education.

She said with the appointment on February 4, 2013 of Reverend Monsignor Miroslaw Adamczyk as Apostolic Nuncio to Liberia, a major landmark in the bilateral relations of Liberia and the Catholic Church was achieved.

President Sirleaf assured the Church that as Pope Francis embarks on the new responsibility, Liberia will work closely with him to enhance peace, respect for the rule of law and human dignity for all mankind