On the morning of Monday, April 21, people around the world bid farewell to the 'Pope of the poor', Francis, who passed away after twelve years on the papal throne. During his papacy, he implemented numerous bold church reforms. He adopted unprecedented, open stances against injustice and in favour of peace, interfaith dialogue, and the pursuit of social justice. He openly criticized governments that fail to support the most impoverished segments of society.

The late Pope became known for his humility and rejection of extravagance, and he was widely recognized for his famous statement: "How I long for a Church that is poor and for the poor."

Pope Francis had a distinctive relationship with the Middle East, demonstrated through clear and courageous positions on the region's conflicts. While his signing of the 2019 Document on Human Fraternity with Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed al-Tayyeb, is always remembered, he is especially noted for his outspoken condemnation of the Zionist aggression on Gaza and his denouncement of its brutal attacks on the people of the Strip and Palestinians in general. In his final sermon, he addressed the war in Gaza and called for a ceasefire.

We in Iraq also remember his historic visit to our country in March 2021, which was marked by pivotal moments for the people of Iraq, both Christians and Muslims.

On this sad occasion, we extend our heartfelt condolences to our Christian compatriots and to Christians around the world. We also express our sympathy to all who appreciated the efforts of the late Pope over the past twelve years. He dedicated himself to the cause of millions of the deprived and marginalised, and to the service of peace, security, and social justice in the world.

The Political Bureau

Iraqi Communist Party

21 April, 2025

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