Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japan’s Prime Minister ISHIBA Shigeru issued a message of condolence to Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Vatican, following the passing of Pope Francis, according to the Foreign Ministry on April 21.

In his message Ishiba expressed his deep sadness at the news of Pope Francis’ passing.

On behalf of the Japanese government and its people, he extended heartfelt condolences, acknowledging the strong personal connection many felt towards the Pope.

Ishiba also noted that since his election as the 266th Pope in March 2013, Pope Francis has diligently worked to protect the environment and promote peaceful diplomacy, supported by approximately 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.

Ishiba mentioned that Pope Francis visited Japan in 2019, marking the first time a Pope had visited the country in 38 years. He expressed both his heartfelt respect and deep admiration for Pope Francis’s accomplishments up to that point.

On the same day, Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi sent a condolence message to Arch. Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States at the Vatican’s Secretariat of State.

In his message, Foreign Minister Iwaya expressed deep sadness upon learning of Pope Francis’s passing and extended heartfelt condolences. He acknowledged Pope Francis’s significant efforts to promote peaceful diplomacy and address global challenges, including environmental issues, throughout his papacy.

Minister Iwaya noted that the Pope’s visit to Japan in 2019 not only advanced friendly relations between Japan and the Vatican but also strengthened cultural and humanitarian ties. He paid tribute to the achievements of His Holiness during his lifetime.