New Delhi [India], April 21 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar mourned the passing of Pope Francis on Monday, remembering him as a compassionate leader committed to building a better world.

'Saddened at the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis,' the EAM wrote on X.

https://x.com/drsjaishankar/status/1914272184727749015?s=46

He also shared a group photo with the Pope and wrote, 'His compassion and commitment to building a better world defined his papacy. May his soul rest in peace.'

Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He died at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta, according to an official statement from the Vatican.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the death of Pope Francis stating that the Pontiff's 'affection for the people of India will always be cherished.'

'Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. 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. From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope,' PM Modi said on X.

'I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-around development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God's embrace,' the Prime Minister said.

Notably, PM Modi had met with Pope Francis on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Apulia, Italy. Pictures from the meeting showed PM Modi and the Pope sharing a warm embrace.

The Vatican has announced a nine-day mourning period, known as the Novendiale, an ancient Roman tradition that continues to this day. During this time, preparations will begin for the election of the next Pontiff. After the mourning period, the Cardinals will be called into Conclave to elect the next Vicar of Christ.

Following the death of the Pope, at 9:45 AM on Easter Monday, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, spoke these words at the Casa Santa Marta.

'Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.'

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he was ordained a Catholic priest in 1969. Following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI on February 28, 2013, a papal conclave elected Cardinal Bergoglio as his successor on March 13. He chose Francis as his papal name in honour of Saint Francis of Assisi. (ANI)