OPR - Wednesday, 6th April, 2005

The President of Malta accompanied by Mrs. Fenech Adami will be leaving Malta on Friday 8th April to attend the funeral of the late Pope John Paul II in Rome.

A letter of condolences to His Eminence Cardinal Eduardo Martinez Somalo, Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church was sent by The President expressing his grief at the demise of the Pope John Paul II. The letter reads "On behalf of the People of Malta, may I express my deepest sympathy on the demise of our Holy Father, Pope John Paul II. Our Pope was a man of great humanity witnessed not only by the Catholic Church but by all nations and faiths. Pope John Paul fostered dialogue and understanding among all, led by example and was an extraordinary moral voice for the World."

His Excellency continued by saying that "We in Malta have had the honour of receiving the Holy Father twice; we treasure the memories of his visits. His strong convictions coupled with his humility will always be remembered. Pope John Paul's courage and charisma enhanced the effective role of the Papacy in world affairs. His death is a great loss to all"

Yesterday, Tuesday, 5th April 2005, The President and Mrs. Fenech Adami signed the book of condolences at the Apostolic Nunciature, Tal-Virtu, Rabat.

 The President signing the book of condolences at the Apostolic Nunciature in Rabat