WANA (Apr 23) – Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, Majid Takht-Ravanchi, visited the Vatican Embassy in Tehran on Wednesday morning to sign the condolence book opened in memory of the late Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday after weeks of illness.

 

Representing the Iranian Foreign Ministry and government, Takht-Ravanchi extended condolences to Vatican Ambassador Andrzej Józwowicz, senior Vatican officials, the global Christian community, and followers of the late pontiff. He also prayed for Pope Francis’ eternal peace.

 

In a heartfelt conversation with the Vatican envoy, Takht-Ravanchi paid tribute to the legacy of Pope Francis, praising his commitment to peace, interfaith dialogue, and global unity.

 

He emphasized that Pope Francis’ compassion for the oppressed and victims of violence, as well as his courageous stances against injustice, discrimination, and cruelty, will be remembered with deep respect.

 

Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, passed away on Monday at the age of 88. He had recently been hospitalized due to respiratory issues and pneumonia, and according to the Vatican, was undergoing a period of recovery. However, Vatican officials confirmed his death earlier today.

 

The announcement was made by the Vatican’s Director of Financial and Administrative Affairs, who stated that the Pope passed away at 7:35 a.m. local time.

 

Iranian officials, including Iran’s president Pezeshkian, government spokesperson Mohajerani, and Foreign Minister Araghchi, also extended condolences in this regard.