The Holy Father’s telegram signed by the Cardinal Secretary of State for the death of Nguyen Phú Trong, General Secretary of the Communist Party and Former President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam

Pope Francis expressed his condolences following the death of the General Secretary of the Communist Party and former President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, in a telegram signed by Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin. The following is the English text of the message sent Tuesday, 23 July.

His Excellency General Tô Lâm
President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam
Hanoi

Having learned of the death of His Excellency Nguyen Phú Trong, General Secretary of the Communist Party and former President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, His Holiness Pope Francis sends condolences to all who mourn his loss, especially his family, together with the assurance of his prayers for their consolation and peace. With particular appreciation for his role in fostering and promoting the positive development of the relations between Viet Nam and the Holy See, Pope Francis willingly sends the pledge of his spiritual closeness to Your Excellency and all your fellow citizens at this time of sorrow for the nation.