REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, YOGYAKARTA -- Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar expressed deep sorrow for the death of Satisfied Catholic Leader Francis. He said Pope Francis was one of his closest friends.

“I am deeply saddened by the death of Pope Francis. Of course, his service and friendship cannot be forgotten,” Menag said in Jakarta, Monday (21/4/2025).

“Of course our prayers may your majesty get a worthy place at his side according to the virtues he has done,” he added.

Menag Nasaruddin and Pope Francis are known as two figures who have a bond of friendship. As High Imam of Istiqlal Mosque, Prof. Nasarurudin Umar signed the Istiqlal Declaration on 5 September 2024. On that occasion, Prof. Nasaruddin Umar introduced to Pope Francis that the Istiqlal Mosque is a great home for humanity.

“Just now (Pope Francis) has visited Indonesia, including visiting the Istiqlal Mosque and giving a very global joint statement,” he said.

“May our cooperation, Indonesia and the Vatican, as well as the testament that Pope Francis has made, we can act as agreed,” he said.

Menag also advised Catholics who have been left behind by Pope Francis to be patient in the face of the ordeal. “Once again, all of us, the extended family of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and all Indonesians express their deepest condolences for the death of Pope Francis,” he concluded.

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