Pope Francis Sends a Telegram with "heartfelt condolences" to the Family of Japan's Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Following his Assassination

Pope Francis has sent a telegram with "heartfelt condolences" to the loved ones of Shinzo Abe, following the assassination of the former Japanese prime minister on July 8, 2022. 

 Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, sent the telegram with the Holy Father's condolences to the Asian country's Apostolic Nuncio, Leo Boccardi.

 The Pope travelled to Japan in 2019. 

Full text of the telegram: The Most Reverend Leo Boccardi Apostolic Nuncio in japan Tokyo His Holiness Pope Francis was deeply saddened to learn of the assassination of Mr Shinzo Abe, former Prime Minister of Japan, and he offers heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and the people of Japan. In the wake of this senseless act, he prays that Japanese society will be strengthened in its historic commitment to peace and nonviolence. Cardinal Pietro Parolin Secretary of State