World leaders pay tribute after the death of Pope Francis

King Charles and the UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer have joined world leaders in paying tribute to Pope Francis who has died aged 88.

The Pope is the head of the Catholic Church and for the approximately 1.4 billion Roman Catholics represents a direct link to Jesus.

He died at his residence in the Vatican City, where Popes traditionally live and work.

The Vatican is the smallest independent state in the world and is surrounded by the Italian capital, Rome.

The 266th Pope, Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina in 1936 and was elected to lead the Catholic Church in March 2013.

King Charles said he "will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith."

What have world leaders being saying about the Pope?

King Charles and Queen Camilla met with Pope Francis during a trip to Italy in April 2025

Pope Francis had been in ill health for many weeks and had spent a lot of time in hospital.

His death came a day after he wished "Happy Easter" to worshippers at the Vatican's St Peter's Square.

The UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: "His tireless efforts to promote a world that is fairer for all will leave a lasting legacy."

King Charles said: "The Queen and I remember with particular affection our meetings with His Holiness over the years and we were greatly moved to have been able to visit him earlier in the month."

At Easter thousands of Catholics gather at St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican.

French President Emmanuel Macron was one of the first leaders to react to the news, calling Pope Francis a "man of humility".

US President Donald Trump posted a message on social media saying "Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!" and the White House shared a photo of President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump meeting the Pope in 2017.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Pope Francis' "affection for the people of India will always be cherished".

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez paid tribute to Pope Francis's commitment to the "most vulnerable" and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the news "saddens us deeply," adding: "I had the privilege of enjoying his friendship."

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said "he inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate".

Egypt's President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi said Pope Francis "was a voice of peace, love and compassion".

Cardinal Farrell who announced his death on behalf of the Vatican said "His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church."

A new Pope will now be chosen. Click here to find out more about the process.