TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) has directed Taiwan's diplomatic mission to the Holy See to express the island nation's grief following Pope Francis's death, according to a statement released Monday (April 21) by Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA, 外交部). The president's message conveyed "profound sorrow" on behalf of both the Taiwanese government and its citizens to Taiwan's only European diplomatic ally.
The Vatican News Office confirmed the pontiff's death on Monday, Taiwan time. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) personally communicated Taiwan's sympathies to Monsignor Stefano Mazzotti, who heads the Vatican's diplomatic mission in Taiwan as Chargé d'Affaires ad interim. Lin also reached out to Bishop Li Ke-mian (李克勉), who leads the Chinese Regional Bishops' Conference of Taiwan (台灣天主教主教團), the island's primary Catholic ecclesiastical authority.
Throughout his twelve-year papacy spanning from 2013 to 2025, Pope Francis demonstrated particular attention to Taiwan's welfare, offering prayers for those affected by the devastating Hualien earthquake and elevating multiple Taiwanese clerics to bishoprics. The pontiff maintained cordial dialogues with various religious delegations from Taiwan and welcomed the island's presidential representatives during official Vatican visits. His modest demeanor and persistent calls for global harmony have left an indelible impression on Taiwan's citizenry and leadership.
The foreign ministry announced that Taiwan will send a delegation of officials to attend the pope's funeral ceremonies at the Vatican while also participating in memorial services at the Apostolic Nunciature in Taipei. The ministry reaffirmed Taiwan's dedication to maintaining humanitarian partnerships with both the Holy See and the broader Catholic Church, with ongoing efforts to advance peace and democratic principles globally. These collaborative endeavors reflect the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Taiwan and the Vatican, which remains rooted in mutual values and aspirations. ★
