Jakarta, April 21 -- Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar conveyed heartfelt condolences on Monday upon the passing of the Catholic Church Leader, Pope Francis, describing him as one of his close friends.

"I express my deepest condolences on the passing of Pope Francis. We cannot forget his service and friendship," the minister remarked on Monday.

Umar and the Pope are recognized for their close friendship.

During his tenure as Grand Imam of the Istiqlal Mosque, Umar signed the Istiqlal Declaration on September 5, 2024. On that day, he introduced Pope Francis to the Mosque, presenting it as a symbol of unity for humanity.

"Hopefully, the cooperation between Indonesia and the Vatican, and the will that Pope Francis has pioneered,...