World leaders pay tribute to Pope Francis, spiritual leader of the Catholic church and custodian of the Vatican's treasures, who has died, aged 88

Pope Francis passed away at 7.35 am local time on April 21 at Casa Santa Marta. His death was acknowledged by Cardinal Kevin Farrell. Following his burial at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the process to elect his successor will begin. World leaders, including Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, praised his humility and commitment to the poor and marginalized, calling him a 'People’s Pope' who faced complex global challenges.

"He was unlike any who came before him. Above all, he was a Pope for everyone. He was the People’s Pope—a light of faith, hope and love."

"Pope Francis was a pope for the poor, the downtrodden and the forgotten. He was close to the realities of human fragility, meeting Christians around the world facing war, famine, persecution."

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