Albania’s Foreign Minister Igli Hasani joined world leaders in Vatican City to pay tribute to Pope Francis, hailing him as a “leader of peace and extraordinary service to humanity.”

Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Igli Hasani, attended the funeral ceremony for Pope Francis at the Vatican today, joining the official Albanian delegation in paying respects to a leader revered worldwide for his commitment to peace and compassion.

In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, Minister Hasani reflected on the significance of the moment:

“Today, in the Vatican, we say farewell to the Holy Father, a leader of peace and a man of extraordinary love and service for humanity,” he wrote, underscoring the profound impact Pope Francis has had not just on the Catholic Church, but on global society (Hasani, 2025).

Hasani went on to praise Pope Francis’s character and approach to leadership, noting:

“Pope Francis listened with his heart, stood by the most vulnerable, and led by example — always choosing the gentle strength of mercy and the silent power of humility.”
This assessment is echoed by international observers who have highlighted Francis’s focus on social justice, inclusion, and advocacy for the marginalized (Vatican News, 2025).

Since ascending to the papacy in 2013, Pope Francis—born Jorge Mario Bergoglio—became known for his dedication to dialogue, interfaith relations, and championing the poor. His legacy is recognized as one of openness and empathy, attributes noted by both faith leaders and secular commentators alike (The New York Times, 2025).

Minister Hasani concluded his tribute by emphasizing the enduring spiritual influence of Pope Francis:
“His spiritual legacy will remain alive in the hearts of millions for generations to come. With prayer and gratitude from Albania, we honor his unforgettable memory,” he said.

The Vatican ceremony drew dignitaries and faithful from around the world, all united in a moment of reflection on the Pope’s lifelong message of humility and peace. As the world mourns, figures like Minister Hasani remind us that the memory of Pope Francis will resonate far beyond the walls of the Vatican, touching hearts in every corner of the globe.

Image:
Österreichisches Außenministerium, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons