Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away at the age of 88, following a serious bout of double pneumonia. The Vatican announced his death in a video statement on Monday. Here are the reactions from leaders and figures around the world:
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India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.”
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Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge mourned the loss, describing it as a blow to the entire world. “The entire world is saddened by the passing away of Pope Francis who will be seen by posterity as being hugely consequential,” he said.
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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also paid his respects in a post on social media platform X.
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Moscow Patriarchate acknowledged Pope Francis’ significant role in strengthening ties between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church.
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Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed wrote, “I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of Pope Francis. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy of compassion, humility, and service to humanity continue to inspire generations to come.”
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US Senator JD Vance shared his condolences, saying, “I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him.”
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Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed sadness, calling Pope Francis a “great man” and a “great shepherd.”
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Germany’s Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz praised the Pope’s commitment, noting, “Pope Francis would be remembered for tireless commitment to the society’s weakest members. He was guided by humility and faith in God’s mercy.”
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Israel’s President Isaac Herzog remembered the Pope as “a man of deep faith and boundless compassion,” adding that he dedicated his life to uplifting the poor and calling for peace. He also hoped that the Pope’s prayers for peace in the Middle East and for the safe return of hostages in Gaza would soon be answered.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, leaders from across the globe continue to honor his legacy of compassion, humility, and dedication to service.
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