Jakarta (ANTARA) - Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar conveyed heartfelt condolences on Monday upon the passing of the Catholic Church Leader, Pope Francis, describing him as one of his close friends.

"I express my deepest condolences on the passing of Pope Francis. We cannot forget his service and friendship," the minister remarked on Monday.

Umar and the Pope are recognized for their close friendship.

During his tenure as Grand Imam of the Istiqlal Mosque, Umar signed the Istiqlal Declaration on September 5, 2024. On that day, he introduced Pope Francis to the Mosque, presenting it as a symbol of unity for humanity.

"Hopefully, the cooperation between Indonesia and the Vatican, and the will that Pope Francis has pioneered, can be followed up as agreed," he stated.

Umar offered words of comfort to Catholics grieving the passing of Pope Francis, urging them to remain patient during this challenging period.

"The Religious Affairs Ministry and all Indonesian people express our deepest condolences for the passing of Pope Francis," he remarked.

Pope Francis visited Indonesia on September 3-6, 2024. During his visit, the Pope attended the inter-religious meeting at Istiqlal Mosque, where he also signed the Istiqlal Joint Declaration 2024: Solidifying Interfaith Concord for Humanity with Minister Umar.

In their meeting, the minister kissed the Pope's head, and Pope Francis responded by kissing Umar's hand, a moment captured in photos that generated widespread discussion.

According to Vatican News, the Pope passed away at his residence at 7:35 a.m. Vatican time on Easter Monday.

"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 favor of the poorest and most marginalized," Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, stated.

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