Pope Francis called on Donald Trump to promote peace and work for a society without hatred, discrimination and exclusion in the pontiff’s message for his inauguration as United States President on Monday.

“On the occasion of your inauguration as the forty-seventh President of the United States of America, I offer cordial greetings and the assurance of my prayers that Almighty God will grant you wisdom, strength and protection in the exercise of your high duties,” read the message.

“Inspired by your nation’s ideals of being a land of opportunity and welcome for all, it is my hope that under your leadership the American people will prosper and always strive to build a more just society, where there is no room for hatred, discrimination or exclusion.

“At the same time, as our human family faces numerous challenges, not to mention the scourge of war, I also ask God to guide your efforts in promoting peace and reconciliation among peoples.

“With these sentiments, I invoke upon you, your family, and the beloved American people an abundance of divine blessings”.