Pope Francis congratulates new Polish president
PR dla Zagranicy
Nick Hodge
14.08.2015 12:41
Pope Francis has sent a congratulatory message to Poland's newly installed head of state, President Andrzej Duda.
Pope Francis smiles as he leads the weekly general audience in the Paul VI Audience Hall, Vatican City, 12 August 2015. EPA/ETTORE FERRARI
The pontiff assured Duda of his prayers for divine assistance in carrying out his presidential tasks.
“May peace and joy, a sense of security and happiness of all people and families, permeate the day-to-day life of all Poles,” Pope Francis wrote.
“May the Lord bless You, Your loved ones and Your co-workers, and the entire Polish Nation.”
President Andrzej Duda, who was the candidate of conservative opposition party Law and Justice, was sworn into office on 6 August.
He defeated former head of state Bronisław Komorowski in the second round of May's election.
Pope Francis is due to visit Kraków, southern Poland, for World Youth Day 2016. The event lasts from 25 July to 31 July. (mk/nh)