NEW DELHI: The leaders of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka joined other world figures in mourning the demise of Pope Francis on Monday (April 21).
They hailed Francis for his compassion and as a spiritual leader of the Catholic community worldwide.
"In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world," Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a message.
"I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished," he said.
The departed Roman Catholic leader was a "beacon of peace, love and interfaith harmony", Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said.
"His leadership inspired billions of people, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his compassion and love for the less fortunate. On behalf of the people of Pakistan, I offer my sincerest condolences to the Catholic Church as well as to all those who feel this profound loss," Shehbaz said.
Bangladesh interim government leader Muhammad Yunus and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake expressed similar sentiments in offering their condolences.
"His unwavering commitment to peace, compassion and humanity has left an indelible mark on the world. May his legacy of compassion, justice, and interfaith harmony continue to inspire generations to come," Dissanayake said.
"With his passing away, we have seen the end of an epoch of dignified papacy, honed by suave leadership qualities, carried out for uplifting human dignity, interfaith harmony, and justice for the marginalised. His leadership transcended religious boundaries and inspired millions to step up efforts to build a more inclusive, tolerant and compassionate world," Yunus said in a message.
Francis died after a respiratory illness at the age of 88.
Many Indian political leaders also reacted to his passing.
The Pope "stood by the downtrodden and the marginalised, spoke fearlessly against inequality, and inspired millions across faiths with his message of love and humanity", Congress party senior leader Rahul Gandhi said.
"My heart goes out to all my fellow Christian brothers and sisters in India and rest of the world and I feel connected with them all in a profound sense of loss and empathy," West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said. - Bernama
