NNA - The President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, mourned Pope Francis, who passed away this morning, saying:

“With deep sorrow and great sadness, we received the news of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, the shepherd of the Catholic Church and the sincere voice of humanity, who has returned to his Creator after a life full of giving and devotion in service to humankind and humanity as a whole.

The loss of Pope Francis is not only a loss for the Catholic Church but for all of humanity. He was a powerful voice for justice and peace, a defender of the poor and marginalized, and a staunch advocate of interfaith and intercultural dialogue.”

President Aoun added:

“In Lebanon, a country of diversity, we feel the loss of a dear friend and a strong supporter. The late Pope always carried Lebanon in his heart and prayers and constantly called on the world to support Lebanon in its times of hardship. We will never forget his repeated appeals to protect Lebanon and preserve its identity and diversity.

Pope Francis was an extraordinary man in his humility and simplicity, and at the same time, a remarkable spiritual leader in his wisdom and courage. He tirelessly worked to build bridges between religions and cultures, defended human dignity and basic rights, and fought for a world that is more just and fair.

On behalf of the Lebanese Republic—its President and its people—I extend my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the Holy See, to the Catholic Church around the world, and to all the believers who loved Pope Francis and were inspired by his noble message.

As we share in the profound sorrow of the peoples of brotherly and friendly nations, we pray with them that God may grant the great departed His vast mercy and welcome him into His heavenly paradise, and that He may bestow patience and solace upon the Catholic Church and the entire world.

In these sorrowful moments, we will remember with reverence and gratitude the late Pope’s noble humanitarian stances and pledge to follow in his footsteps by upholding the values of dialogue, tolerance, and the building of a world ruled by peace, love, and justice.”

----- Lebanese Presidency