Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Monday expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, calling the pontiff’s passing “a loss for all of humanity” and honoring his legacy as a tireless advocate for justice, peace, and interfaith dialogue.

In a statement issued by the presidency, Aoun paid tribute to the late pope as “a powerful voice for justice and peace, a defender of the poor and marginalized, and an advocate for dialogue between religions and cultures.”

“Here in Lebanon, a country of diversity, we feel the loss of a dear friend and a steadfast supporter,” the president said. “The late Pope always carried Lebanon in his heart and prayers. He consistently called on the world to support Lebanon in its time of hardship, and we will never forget his repeated appeals to protect Lebanon and preserve its identity and diversity.”

President Aoun extended condolences on behalf of the Lebanese Republic to the Holy See, to the Catholic Church around the world, and "to all the faithful who loved Pope Francis and were touched by his noble message."

He vowed that Lebanon would remain committed to the values the pope upheld.

“We will remember with reverence and gratitude the late Pope’s noble humanitarian stances, and we pledge to continue on his path in promoting the values of dialogue, tolerance, and the building of a world rooted in peace, love, and justice,” Aoun said.