Krishna condoles demise of Pope Shenouda III

New Delhi, Mar 19 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna has conveyed his deep condolences to Egyptian Foreign Minister Mohamed Kamel Amr on demise of HH Pope Shenouda III, the patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church.

"Excellency, I am deeply saddened to learn about the demise of His Holiness Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria and Head of the Coptic Orthodox church. Pope Shenouda III was both a great Egyptian patriot and believer in the virtues of religious tolerance and reconciliation. We in India share the sense of loss at the passing away of this great figure," said Krishna in his condolence message.

"On behalf of the Government and people of India, I offer my sincere condolences to the Egyptian people and members of the Coptic Orthodox faith. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration," he added.

Pope Shenouda III, who was the 117th Pope of Alexandria and the Patriarch of All Africa on the Holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark the Evangelist of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, died on March 17. (ANI)