Malta's President Myriam Spiteri Debono, Prime Minister Robert Abela, President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech all welcomed the news of Pope Leo XIV's election.
President of Malta Myriam Spiteri Debono congratulated the new Pope, and said that, "reflecting on His Holiness' inaugural message, the President appreciates his message of world peace. The President notes the significance of his choice of name, Pope Leo XIV, when one recollects the impetus that his predecessor Pope Leo XIII imparted to the social teaching of the Church."
Prime Minister Abela said on X, formerly known as Twitter: "On behalf of the people of Malta, I warmly congratulate His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election. We wish him strength and wisdom as he leads the Catholic Church. Malta looks forward to deepening the relationship with the Vatican during the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV."
In a statement, the Maltese government said that it congratulates Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who has been elected Pope following the conclave held in the Vatican City.
"The Government conveys its best wishes to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV in his dual role as Head of the Vatican State and spiritual leader of the Catholic Church. It expresses confidence that he will continue to be a steadfast voice for peace, particularly during this period of evolving global geopolitical challenges." The Government of Malta looks forward to further strengthening the longstanding and valued relationship between Malta and the Vatican City State throughout the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV."
The Speaker of the House of Representatives Anglu Farrugia, on behalf of Parliament, welcomed the new pope in the hope that he will be a strong voice in favour of peace.
EU Parliament President Metsola also posted on X. "Habemus Papam. Welcome, Pope Leo XIV. May your leadership of the Catholic Church be a beacon of hope to all the faithful. And that your wisdom and strength continue to inspire the world as we work towards building bridges, unity and peace."
PN Leader Grech posted: "The Catholic world is rejoicing at the appointment of a new Pope. It is a moment of profound spiritual significance for millions of people around the world, including us Maltese."