President John Mahama has congratulated Pope Francis upon his assumption to the papacy. A statement issued Friday said the pope's "impressive work as a champion of the poor and the vulnerable inspires hope in millions of people around the world". Below is the full statement MESSAGE OF CONGRATULATIONS Your Holiness, On behalf of the Government and People of Ghana and on my own behalf, I avail myself of this opportunity to convey heartfelt congratulations to Your Holiness, on your assumption of the Papacy. Your impressive work as a champion of the poor and the vulnerable inspires hope in millions of people around the world in these challenging and difficult times. I have noted that we share common goals, including the need to fight against poverty, advance world peace, and encourage respect for human dignity and interfaith dialogue for the betterment of humankind. I am, therefore, confident that the relations that exist between Ghana and the Vatican will be further strengthened under your wise leadership. Please accept, Your Holiness, the assurances of my highest esteem. JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF GHANA