UAE extends condolences on death of Pope Francis
text_fieldsAbu Dhabi: UAE leaders have extended heartfelt condolences following the death of Pope Francis on Monday, paying tribute to his global influence and dedication to peace.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed his sympathies via social media.
“I extend my deepest condolences to Catholics around the world on the passing of Pope Francis, who dedicated his life to promoting the principles of peaceful coexistence and understanding. May he rest in peace,” he said on X.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, also posted a message mourning the pontiff’s death.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis,” he wrote, describing the late pope as “a great leader whose compassion and commitment to peace touched countless lives. His legacy of humility and interfaith unity will continue to inspire many communities around the world.”
The Vatican confirmed the death of the 88-year-old pontiff, who made history as the first Latin American to lead the Roman Catholic Church. He passed away after facing multiple health challenges during his 12-year papacy.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the Argentine cardinal was elected pope on March 13, 2013. Known for his progressive stance and deep concern for the poor, Pope Francis was widely seen as an outsider at the time of his election but went on to become a global symbol of compassion, inclusiveness and interfaith dialogue.