Vatican city welcomes the news of a Biden presidency.

  Biden's transition team said in a statement that the president-elect thanked Francis for "extending blessings and congratulations and noted his appreciation." He also saluted the pontiff's "leadership in promoting peace, reconciliation, and the common bonds of humanity around the world."

Biden said he hopes to work with Francis on issues such as climate change, poverty and immigration.

   Biden has said he accepts church doctrine about abortion on a personal level, but does not want to impose that belief on everyone.