Pakistan’s leaders convey condolences, tributes on Pope Francis’ death

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif expressed grief over the death of Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of the Christian community.

The president paid tribute to the late Pope’s commitment to interfaith harmony, compassion and peaceful coexistence. He also expressed condolences to the Vatican and the entire Catholic community on the death of Pope Francis on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan.

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“Pope Francis will be remembered for his efforts for peace, social justice, interfaith dialogue and the welfare of the vulnerable groups around the world,” President Zardari said. He added that Pope Francis was a powerful voice for peace and justice, and made efforts to connect communities belonging to different religions.

“Pope Francis’ efforts to promote mutual understanding will always be remembered,” President Zardari said adding that his death is a great loss not only for Christians but also for those who value peace and dialogue among all religions.

PM Sharif also shared grief over Pope’s demise, saying, “Pope Francis was a pioneer of interfaith harmony, peace and the good of humanity. The Catholic Church under the leadership of Pope Francis spread love, tolerance and mutual respect.”

The premier said that Pope Francis’ statement on the Gaza ceasefire and human rights on Easter was a reflection of the pain for humanity. “His death is an irreparable loss for the Christian community,” he added.

Prime Minister Sharif expressed condolences on behalf of the government and the people of Pakistan on the death of Pope Francis.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also shared a statement expressing condolences to the family of Pope Francis and the Christian community. “Pope Francis played a prominent role in serving suffering humanity. His services for establishing peace in the world will be remembered,” he said, adding, “Pope Francis’s principled position on the Palestine issue Appreciated by the United Nations. The world has lost a sincere and peace-loving figure.”

Reactions to the death of Pope Francis

Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said, “Deeply saddened to hear of the death of Pope Francis.” He paid tribute to the late Pope’s commitment to interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence. “Pope Francis spread the message of humanity, tolerance and love. The death of Pope Francis is a great loss not only for the Christian community but also for those who value peace and dialogue around the world,” Ayaz Sadiq said.

“The Pope’s principled position on Palestine can be viewed with appreciation in the Islamic world,” NA Speaker added.

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said, “Pope Francis’s struggle for the welfare of the poor, the rights of refugees and building bridges between religions and cultures is commendable.”