With deep sorrow, we at the Euro-Gulf Information Centre joins in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who died on 21 April, 2025. As the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, his pontificate, which began in 2013, was defined by humility, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to peace and interfaith dialogue. Pope Francis holds an especially important place in the hearts of those devoted to strengthening ties between Europe and the Arab Gulf, as his legacy of interfaith dialogue holds special significance.
Born in Buenos Aires on 17 December 1936, to a family of Italian origin, Pope Francis brought a distinctive perspective to the papacy as the first Jesuit and the first pope from the Americas. His pastoral style — grounded in simplicity and closeness to the marginalised — earned him widespread respect. Most notably, his dedication to bridging divides between religions, especially Christianity and Islam, had a lasting impact on relations between Europe and the Gulf.
His historic 2019 visit to the United Arab Emirates — the first by any pope to the Arabian Peninsula — was a milestone. There, together with Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tayyeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, he co-signed the Document on Human Fraternity, a call for mutual respect, peace, and coexistence. That initiative inspired the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, a complex housing a mosque, church, and synagogue—symbolising unity among monotheistic faiths.
In 2022, Pope Francis reaffirmed this commitment in Bahrain, participating in the Bahrain Forum for Dialogue and again meeting the Grand Imam. His presence underscored that dialogue between East and West is not only possible, but essential.
He often reminded the world that ‘dialogue is a condition necessary for peace.’ His encyclical Fratelli Tutti and the Document on Human Fraternity remain foundational texts for faith-based diplomacy. Francis’ leadership consistently opposed extremism and apathy, urging all people of goodwill to pursue justice, solidarity and mutual understanding.
As we remember his life, we honour a pontiff of humility, a pilgrim of peace who brought hope to millions. His example will continue to guide those working to build bridges across cultures and beliefs.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Catholic Church and all who were touched by his extraordinary life.
Requiescat in pace.