The following is the telegram of condolences for the victims of the earthquake that struck Albania yesterday, sent on behalf of the Holy Father Francis by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin to the President of Albania, His Excellency Mr. Ilir Meta:

Telegram

His Excellency Ilir Meta

President of the Republic of Albania

Tirana

His Holiness Pope Francis sends heartfelt condolences to Your Excellency and to the families of those who have died following the earthquake that struck your country. Commending the souls of the deceased to God’s mercy, he assures the injured and all those affected by this disaster of his closeness in prayer. Upon the emergency personnel in their relief efforts, His Holiness invokes blessings of strength, and he entrusts the people of Albania to the loving providence of the Almighty.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin

Secretary of State