World leaders mourn Pope Francis, remember his legacy of compassion
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World leaders honor Pope Francis after his death at 88, praising his legacy of compassion, justice, interfaith dialogue, and advocacy for the vulnerable.
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A faithful holds a portrait of late Pope Francis at the Basílica de San José de Flores, where he worshipped as a youth, following the Vatican's announcement of his death, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Monday, April 21, 2025. (AP)
Pope Francis’s death has triggered an outpouring of condolences from global leaders and institutions, who praised his legacy of humility, justice, and interfaith dialogue.
The Vatican confirmed the Pope's passing in a statement issued by Cardinal Kevin Farrell.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Farrell said via the Vatican's Telegram channel.
“This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His church.”
MENA
Palestine
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas described Francis as “a faithful friend of the Palestinian people and their legitimate rights,” highlighting the pope’s recognition of the Palestinian state and permission for the Palestinian flag to fly at the Vatican.
From Gaza, Hamas senior official Bassem Naim lauded Francis as “a steadfast advocate for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,” emphasizing his repeated calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and condemnation of civilian suffering.
Egypt
President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi mourned Francis’s passing as “a profound loss for the entire world,” praising his lifelong efforts to “promote tolerance and build bridges of dialogue.” He also recognized the pope’s support for Palestinian rights.
Lebanon
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said Francis’s death was “a loss for all humanity,” acknowledging his “repeated calls to protect Lebanon and preserve its identity and diversity” and his commitment to interfaith dialogue.
Hezbollah issued a statement offering its condolences over the Pope's death, saying the group "extends its deepest condolences to the State of the Vatican, the followers of the Catholic Church around the world, and Christians in general — especially our Christian brothers and sisters in Lebanon and the Apostolic Nunciature — on the passing of the head of the Catholic Church, Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Pope Francis)."
"Pope Francis was a man who called for peace and rejected war. He worked with deep conviction to sow love, tolerance, and build bridges between religions, civilizations, and peoples in pursuit of dialogue, understanding, and justice," the statement added.
Arab League
Meanwhile, Arab League chief Ahmed Aboul Gheit said Francis’s “voice in condemning Israeli brutality was loud and clear until the very last moment,” adding that the pontiff maintained direct communication with Gaza residents throughout recent escalations.
Africa
African Union
African Union Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf praised the late Pope for “amplifying the voices of the voiceless, championing peace and reconciliation, and standing in solidarity with those affected by conflict and poverty.”
Kenya
Kenyan President William Ruto described Francis as a model of “servant leadership,” citing his “humility, unwavering commitment to inclusivity and justice, and deep compassion for the poor and the vulnerable.”
Ethiophia
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed extended his “deepest condolences” and noted the pope's enduring impact: “May his legacy of compassion, humility, and service to humanity continue to inspire generations to come.”
Europe
Sweden
Swedish Cardinal Anders Arborelius, a participant in the upcoming conclave, reflected on Francis's challenges as the first Latin American pope.
“He faced a lot of resistance,” Arborelius said. “He was neither liberal/progressive nor conservative/traditionalist, and did not want to fit into European categories.”
France
French President Emmanuel Macron remembered Francis as someone who stood “on the side of the most vulnerable and the most fragile,” adding that he was a symbol of “brotherly humankind.”
Ireland
Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin highlighted Francis's "unwavering commitment to compassion, peace and human dignity," and recalled his "expression of pain and shame" during the 2018 visit to Ireland in light of historical Church abuses.
Italy
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni mourned the pope's death, saying, “A great man has left us,” and praising his lasting spiritual influence.
Germany
Incoming German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed “great sorrow,” noting Francis’s “indefatigable commitment” to justice and reconciliation, and his moral courage.
Spain
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called Francis’s death a “profound loss,” emphasizing his “commitment to peace, social justice, and the most vulnerable.”
Asia
India
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Francis as “a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage,” recalling their past meetings and the pope's dedication to inclusive development.
