Berlin [Germany], April 22: The world has lost a defender of the poor and marginalized, European leaders said on Monday after the death of Pope Francis, drawing attention to his support for the forgotten and least fortunate in society.
The pontiff was a staunch defender of refugees and the impoverished during his 12 years leading the Catholic Church, especially during his trips abroad.
Last year during a visit to Luxembourg, he called on people to focus on "the advantages of peace over the horrors of war and the advantages of integrating and promoting migrants over marginalizing them." In the course of Russia's war on Ukraine, the pope repeatedly reminded the public of what he called the "martyred Ukraine."
At the Venice Art biennale, the pope met dozens of prisoners and sought to highlight the problem of overcrowding in many prisons, before the Vatican showcased works created in dialogue with prisoners.
Here is a selection of messages from European leaders about the late pope:
Italian President Sergio Mattarella: "His teachings reminded us of the message of the Gospel, solidarity among people, the duty to be close to the weakest, international cooperation and peace in humanity."
French President Emmanuel Macron: "From Buenos Aires to Rome, Pope Francis wanted the Church to bring joy and hope to the poorest. To unite people with one another and with nature. May this hope be reborn endlessly beyond him."
Germany's chancellor-in-waiting, Friedrich Merz: "Francis will be remembered for his tireless commitment to the weakest in society, to justice and reconciliation. Humility and faith in God's mercy guided him in this."
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen: "He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate."
President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola: "'The People's Pope' will be remembered for his love for life, hope for peace, compassion for equality & social justice. May he rest in peace."
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez: "His commitment to peace, social justice, and the most vulnerable leaves a profound legacy."
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer: "He was close to the realities of human fragility, meeting Christians around the world facing war, famine, persecution and poverty. Yet he never lost hope of a better world."
Polish President Andrzej Duda: "He was a great apostle of Mercy, in which he saw an answer to the challenges of the modern world."
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier: "Many who felt forgotten felt heard, seen and understood by him."
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz: "In Pope Francis, the Catholic Church and the world have lost an advocate for the weak, a reconciler and a warm-hearted person."
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof: "With his sober way of life, acts of service and compassion, Pope Francis was a role model for many - Catholics and non-Catholics alike. We remember him with great respect."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky: "He knew how to give hope, ease suffering through prayer, and foster unity. He prayed for peace in Ukraine and for Ukrainians. We grieve together with Catholics and all Christians who looked to Pope Francis for spiritual support.
Russian President Vladimir Putin: "In all the years of his pontificate, he actively promoted dialogue between the Russian Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches as well as constructive cooperation between Russia and the Holy See."
Source: Qatar Tribune
