World leaders across the globe mourned the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Monday at the age of 88. Revered as a spiritual leader to 1.4 billion Catholics, Francis was remembered for his compassion, humility, and commitment to justice.
Here are some of the key tributes:
– ‘Defender of Justice’: Vladimir Putin
Russian President Vladimir Putin called Pope Francis a “wise” religious leader and “consistent defender of the high values of humanism and justice.” He praised the pontiff’s efforts to foster dialogue between the Russian Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches.
– ‘Courageous Leader’: King Charles III (UK)
King Charles expressed deep sorrow, describing Francis as someone who “profoundly touched the lives of so many” through his care for both humanity and the planet. Charles was one of the last foreign dignitaries to meet with the pope.
– ‘Wise Despite Differences’: President Javier Milei (Argentina)
Argentina’s President Javier Milei paid tribute despite past political differences, saying, “To have known him in his goodness and wisdom was a true honor.” Argentina declared seven days of national mourning in his memory.
– ‘A Great Man Has Left Us’: Giorgia Meloni (Italy)
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed sadness over the pope’s passing, saying, “It is deeply sad news because a great man has left us.”
– ‘Inspired the Refugee Olympic Team’: Thomas Bach (IOC)
International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach credited Pope Francis with inspiring the creation of the Olympic Refugee Team. “His powerful voice in support of refugees” was a driving force behind the initiative launched at the Rio 2016 Games.
– ‘A Faithful Friend’: Mahmud Abbas (Palestinian Authority)
Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas mourned “a faithful friend of the Palestinian people,” noting Francis’s recognition of the Palestinian state and support for Palestinian rights.
– ‘Left an Indelible Impression’: James Marape (Papua New Guinea)
Prime Minister James Marape praised Francis’s visit to Papua New Guinea, saying his engagement with young people and church leaders “left an indelible impression,” inspiring the nation with messages of justice and humility.
– ‘Profound Legacy’: Pedro Sanchez (Spain)
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez highlighted Pope Francis’s “commitment to peace, social justice, and the most vulnerable,” calling it a profound and enduring legacy. Real Madrid players held a moment of silence in his honor.
– ‘Heart Open to All’: Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (Philippines)
President Ferdinand Marcos remembered Francis as a leader who “led not only with wisdom but with a heart open to all,” especially the poor and forgotten.
– ‘Live a Meaningful Life’: The Dalai Lama (Tibet)
The Dalai Lama honored the pope’s dedication to service and simplicity, saying, “The best tribute we can pay to him is to be a warm-hearted person, serving others wherever and in whatever way we can.”
– ‘Defender of the Environment’: Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba (Japan)
Japan’s PM Shigeru Ishiba described Pope Francis as a global advocate for peace and environmental stewardship, noting that his passing is a loss not only to Catholics but to the international community.
– ‘Voice for Climate Justice’: President Bola Tinubu (Nigeria)
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu lauded the pope’s efforts on climate change and social justice, calling him “the most trenchant voice for justice and action against climate change.”
Pope Francis’s death marks the end of a papacy defined by humility, inclusion, and advocacy for the marginalized—an impact deeply felt around the world.
