Spiritual leader of Catholics and Head of the Vatican State, Pope Francis, has passed away at the age of 88.

President Ersin Tatar issued a message of condolence following the death of Pope Francis.

In his message, President Ersin Tatar expressed his sorrow upon learning of the death of Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of the Catholic world, who left a global mark with his calls for human rights and universal peace.

The President noted that Pope Francis was respected worldwide not only as a religious leader but also as an advocate for peace, dialogue, and solidarity.

Tatar stated that Pope Francis’s sensitivity to issues such as global justice, the environment, and the rights of refugees carried important messages for humanity.

President Tatar concluded by saying, “On behalf of myself and the Turkish Cypriot people, I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the Catholic world, the Vatican, and the devoted followers of Pope Francis for this profound loss.”