Modi wrote on X, April 21 -- Indian PM Narendra Modi on Monday expressed his sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff to head the 1.4 billion Catholics across the globe.

"Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community."

"Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world," he said.

Modi remembered his previous meeting with the religious leader and said he was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-around development.

"His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal ...