Bahrain yesterday joined the world in mourning Pope Francis, who was described as a transcendent voice for peace, human dignity and social justice.
The first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, 88, died yesterday. He had suffered a serious bout of double pneumonia this year, but his death came as a shock after he had been driven around St Peter’s Square in an open-air popemobile to greet cheering crowds on Easter Sunday.
His Majesty King Hamad sent a cable of condolences to Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Vatican, expressing sincere condolences. He praised the significant role played by the Pope in promoting interfaith and intercultural dialogue, advancing the values of human solidarity and tolerance, fostering peaceful coexistence among people of all backgrounds, and supporting just causes while rejecting conflict and war.
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, sent a similar cable of condolences to Cardinal Parolin.
Bahrain stood by the Vatican during this time, the Royal Court said, recounting the close relationship between His Majesty and the Pope. The Pope had earned the respect and appreciation of people across the world, it said in a statement.
Top stories for today:
MAN OF PEACE: Bahrain joins world leaders in mourning Pope Francis
Interior Ministry confirms fatality in Al Hejiyat blaze
Cabinet pays tribute to Pope Francis
Follow us on LinkedIn - Gulf Daily News - GDN
&uuid=(email))