OPCW Pays its Respects to the Pope and the Holy See

5 April 2005

On behalf of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), Director-General Rogelio Pfirter, conveyed sincere condolences to the Holy See and to the entire Church at this time of great loss.

Director-General Pfirter paid tribute to Pope John Paul II’s legacy, as well as his untiring dedication to fostering dialogue, conciliation and forgiveness in a world too often marked by conflict. His Holiness will be missed not only by the Catholic faithful the world over, but by many others, who were especially touched by his humility and compassion and by his personal courage and determination.

As a mark of respect for his Holiness, the Organisation’s flag flies at half mast.

06/2005