site.btaEuropean Leaders Pay Tribute to Pope Francis

European leaders paid tribute on Monday to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88.

In a post on X, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that “today, the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis”. “He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate. My thoughts are with all who feel this profound loss. May they find solace in the idea that Pope Francis’ legacy will continue to guide us all toward a more just, peaceful and compassionate world,” Von der Leyen wrote.

Also on X, European Council President Antonio Costa wrote: “I join the many millions across the globe who mourn the death of His Holiness Pope Francis. He was deeply compassionate. He cared about the great global challenges of our time —migration, climate change, inequalities, peace— as well as the everyday struggles of the one and all. In his most recent message for the World Day of Peace, he proposed three actions so that 'enduring change' may come about—the forgiveness of international debt, the abolition of the death penalty, and the reallocation of military funds towards ending hunger. May his ideas continue to guide us towards a future of hope. Requiescat in pace.”

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola wrote in a post on X that “Europe mourns the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis”. “His contagious smile captured millions of people’s hearts across the globe. ‘The People’s Pope’ will be remembered for his love for life, hope for peace, compassion for equality and social justice. May he rest in peace,” Metsola said.