President of the TRNC Extends Condolences Over the Death of Pope Francis

President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Ersin Tatar, has expressed his condolences following the death of Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of the Catholic world, who made a lasting global impact with his calls for human rights and universal peace,” Tatar said in a statement.

He noted that Pope Francis had earned worldwide respect not only as a religious leader but also as a strong advocate for peace, dialogue, and solidarity.

“His compassion—especially in matters of global justice, environmental protection, and the rights of refugees—carried important messages for all of humanity. I extend my deepest condolences, both personally and on behalf of the Turkish Cypriot people, to the Catholic community, the Vatican, and Pope Francis’ loved ones in this time of great loss,” the statement concluded.

Pope Francis passed away on April 21 at his residence in the Vatican. He had previously been treated for bilateral pneumonia, which required a prolonged hospital stay.