Archbishop of Singapore welcomes selection of new pope

Archbishop of the Catholic Church of Singapore Nicholas Chia welcomed the news that Argentinean Cardinal Jorge Mario Bargoglio, 76, was elected pope on Thursday.

Speaking to The Straits Times, Archbishop Chia said he was happy that a new pope had been chosen.

Bergoglio, or Pope Francis, as he will now be known, is the first pope chosen from outside Europe in modern times. He is also the first Latin American cardinal selected as pope of the Catholic Church in history, signifying a break in tradition for the Vatican.

"It's good, because the church is universal," said Archbishop Chia.

"We hope that he will lead the church to greater contribution towards the world."

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