Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has said Minsk will support Vatican initiatives aimed at securing a just and lasting peace.


In a birthday message to Pope Leo XIV, Lukashenko said the Pope’s “tireless many years of service to God” inspired millions of believers to show mercy, compassion and love for others, according to Russian media.


He said the Pope’s mission had particular spiritual significance in a world seeking stability and security, adding that it strengthened faith in dialogue and resonated with people of different countries and religions.


Lukashenko said the Holy See could always count on Belarusian support for initiatives aimed at ensuring a just and lasting peace in the region.


“I am convinced that relations between Minsk and the Vatican should continue to develop consistently in order to preserve the Christian heritage and humanitarian principles,” he said.


Lukashenko also wished Pope Leo XIV a long life, good health and God’s blessing in his work.


By Aghakazim Guliyev