Pak mourns passing of Pope Francis

The national leadership expressed deep grief and sorrow on Monday over the death of Pope Francis, the head of Roman Catholic Church.

In his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Pope Francis consistently guided billions of people towards promoting peace and love. "Pope Francis was a symbol of interfaith harmony, peace, and humanity," the prime minister remarked.

The prime minister emphasized that under Pope Francis' leadership, the Catholic Church spread the messages of affection, tolerance, and mutual respect worldwide. His message was not only a source of inspiration for Christians but for followers of all religions.

"Pope Francis' recent statement on Easter, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Palestine, and an end to human rights violations, reflects his peace-loving personality and love for humanity," the prime minister added.

He described the passing of Pope Francis as an irreparable loss for the entire world, especially the Christian Community. "On behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, I extend heartfelt condolences and sympathy to Vatican City, the global Christian community, and his followers around the world," the prime minister said.

In a separate statement, President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to Pope Francis for his commitment to interfaith harmony, compassion, and peaceful coexistence.

He extended his condolences on behalf of the government and the people of Pakistan to the Vatican and the global Catholic community.

While honoring Pope Francis' services, the president said that the Pope would be remembered for his efforts to promote peace, social justice, interfaith dialogue, and the well-being of the most vulnerable communities worldwide.

Zardari described the Pope as a powerful voice for peace and justice, noting that his efforts to bring communities of different faiths together and promote mutual understanding would always be remembered.

The president referred to Pope Francis' passing as a great loss, not only for Christians but for all those who valued peace and dialogue among religions.

Meanwhile, PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari termed Pope Francis' demise a tremendous loss for the global community, interfaith harmony and humanity at large.

According to a statement issued by the Media Cell of Bilawal House, the PPP Chairman said that the Pope was a beacon of compassion, humility, and peace.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Monday also conveyed its heartfelt condolences on the passing of Pope Francis.

In a statement, the ministry said, "His Holiness demonstrated unwavering commitment to fostering unity among world religions, advocating for the oppressed, and promoting the inherent dignity of all humankind. Pakistan deeply valued his tireless efforts to enhance mutual respect and understanding among diverse cultures and faiths."

The Church of Pakistan expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, describing his death as a moment of deep loss for the global Church.