Vatican city: President Lai Ching-te sent a letter to Pope Leo XIV congratulating him on his 70th birthday on Sunday, conveying "cordial and heartfelt wishes" on behalf of the government and people of Taiwan.
According to Focus Taiwan, Lai highlighted the Pope's "dedication to human dignity" and "commitment to church unity" in his efforts to "promote world peace, social justice, and global outreach" since his pontificate began in May 2025. President Lai also praised the Pope's "efforts to build fellowship between different faiths and fraternity among nations," noting how these actions have reinforced the Taiwanese people's commitment to uphold universal values and pursue the common good.
President Lai emphasized Taiwan's support for the Holy See's mission to achieve peace, bridge divisions, and encourage dialogue in a world filled with conflict. He affirmed Taiwan's ongoing collaboration with the Holy See to advance humanitarian aid and provide relief to those in need globally.
Additionally, a Taiwanese delegation comprising lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party is currently visiting Rome. They recorded a video greeting at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican, extending birthday wishes to the Pope and expressing hopes for strengthened ties between Taiwan and the Holy See.
The Holy See remains one of the Republic of China's (ROC) 12 diplomatic allies and is the sole ally in Europe. Diplomatic relations were formally established in 1942 when the ROC government was still located on the Chinese mainland.