Rome, Italy, Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 – The city of Rome became a gathering place for the world as hundreds of thousands filled its streets to mourn the passing of Pope Francis, affectionately known as “The People’s Pope.” Revered across faiths and nations, the Pontiff was celebrated for his unwavering compassion, moral courage, and a lifelong commitment to global unity.

Among the numerous world leaders and dignitaries in attendance was Kamel Ghribi, President of GKSD Investment Holding, who joined American, European, and African heads of state in reflecting on the Pope’s enduring contribution to humanity and peace.

Ghribi, who had the personal honour of meeting Pope Francis, spoke movingly of the late Pontiff’s profound influence:

“He was a man of peace who turned faith into a bridge, not a barrier. His call for unity resonates, even after his death, when adversaries stand side by side, united in grief and reverence.”

He recalled their shared reflections on the principles of human brotherhood. He praised the Pope’s foresight in endorsing the Abu Dhabi Manifesto in 2019 — a landmark moment for interreligious dialogue and cooperation.

“The signing of the Abu Dhabi Manifesto was a bold and visionary step,” Ghribi said. “It was a declaration that faith must unite, not divide.”

During the solemn proceedings, President Ghribi held meaningful exchanges with global leaders, including the Presidents of Kenya, Congo, Bangladesh, Kosovo, and Lebanon; the Prime Ministers of Qatar and Greece; the Minister of foreign affairs of Tunisia; and key dignitaries from the United Nations, including Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

Looking ahead with hope, Ghribi concluded:

“I hope that peace in Ukraine, after the meeting in the Vatican between Trump and Zelensky, will be Pope Francis’ first miracle from on high.”

The funeral of Pope Francis was not only a farewell to a beloved spiritual leader but a call to carry forward his message: that peace, dialogue, and unity must be the shared mission of all humanity.

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