Bidzina Ivanishvili extends condolences to Catholics in Georgia, around world on death of Pope Francis

Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder and Honorary Chair of the ruling Georgian Dream party, on Monday issued a statement expressing his condolences to Catholics in Georgia and around the world following the passing of Pope Francis.

“We offer our condolences to Catholics in Georgia and around the world on the passing of Pope Francis. Pope Francis was always dedicated to spreading peace and goodness. As a symbol of hope, compassion, peace, and unity, Pope Francis will continue to be an example for millions of people. We extend our sincere sympathy to all those mourning this great loss”, Ivanishvili said.

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta.

He had been hospitalised on February 14 due to bronchitis, which progressed to bilateral pneumonia by February 18.

He spent 38 days in hospital before returning to Casa Santa Marta, where he passed away.