Tehran: President Masoud Pezeshkian has sent a message to Pope Leo XIV, leader of the Catholic Church, extending his best wishes on the birth anniversary of Jesus Christ and the arrival of the New Year. In his message, Pezeshkian emphasized the spiritual virtues of Jesus, including freedom, justice, and compassion, as timeless examples for humanity, which are also praised in the holy Quran.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Pezeshkian highlighted the challenges posed by unchecked power of global superpowers that drive the world toward conflict and destruction. He stressed the importance of collective wisdom, reflection, and independent action by heads of state and scholars to resolve these human challenges. He expressed hope that such efforts could pave the way for peace, security, and freedom for oppressed nations around the world.

In his message, the Iranian president wished the Pope good health, prosperity for followers of Christ, and lasting peace and stability globally. In a separate message to Christian leaders and peoples of countries celebrating the occasion, Pezeshkian emphasized that peace and the expansion of moral values across human societies are a longstanding human ideal that lead to happiness and human flourishing.

Pezeshkian further stated that all of God's spiritual and revelatory attributes are embodied in Jesus Christ and that humanity can take him as a model. He expressed hope that through joint efforts, peaceful coexistence, and justice-based action, peace and calm can be promoted in today's turbulent world.