Global gathering in Vatican: Uzbekistan delegation celebrates new Pope Leo XIV

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On May 18, a grand ceremonial event was held at the Vatican to mark the official commencement of the service of Leo XIV, the 267th Bishop of Rome, as he took his throne. According to reports by the "Dunyo" news agency, approximately 250,000 people from around the world gathered in St. Peter’s Square and its surrounding areas to witness the historic ceremony. The Uzbekistan delegation was among the distinguished participants.

Representing Uzbekistan, Nuriddin Ismoilov, Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, attended the event in an official capacity. After the formal proceedings concluded, Ismoilov congratulated the newly elected Pope and conveyed the warm greetings of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. 

"In response, the new Pope expressed his deep gratitude to the leadership and people of Uzbekistan," the report states.

Delegations from 156 foreign countries, various royal houses, and religious confessions also participated in the ceremony, underscoring the event’s global significance.

It is also recalled that earlier this year, Pope Francis (Jorge Mario Bergoglio) passed away on April 21 after a prolonged illness. At his funeral, Sodik Safoev, the First Deputy Chairman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis from Uzbekistan, was among the dignitaries who attended.

Additionally, on May 7, a conclave was convened at the Vatican by 133 cardinals who gathered in the Sistine Chapel to elect the new Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. The conclave resulted in the election of American Robert Prevo as the new Pontiff.