"The world has lost a tenacious herald of peace and justice, a defender of all peoples, who ignored cultural, social or political differences and divisions, who cared, at the same time, about everyone and each person". This was written by the Lithuanian President, Gitanas Nauseda, in a press release issued on the occasion of Pope Francis' death.
"His teaching is extremely important for all of us today, at a time when wars and aggression destroy the hope of peaceful coexistence and try to erase from people's hearts the prospect of a just and harmonious world," Nauseda added.
Words of great emotion were also spoken by the Estonian president, Alar Karis.
"Pope Francis was a spiritual leader whose ministry brought a clear message of humanity, care and a sense of justice," Karis said. "Francis stood firmly on behalf of the poor, the marginalised and peace, and called the whole world to a greater sense of responsibility and mutual understanding.
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