First Minister Eluned Morgan has paid tribute to Pope Francis following his death at the age of 88.

He died on Monday, the Vatican announced, a day after he appeared in St Peter’s Square to greet thousands of worshippers.

Morgan said it was with “great sadness that I have learned of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis”.

“As first minister of Wales, and as a Christian, I offer my deepest condolences to the Catholic community in Wales and around the world,” she said.

“Pope Francis led with unwavering humility, courage and profound compassion.

“Throughout his papacy, he was a tireless advocate for the poor, the marginalised and the displaced.

“He reminded us all that the fight against poverty, climate change and injustice is not just a political or social task, but a moral calling.

“His message was clear: every person, regardless of background, race, or sexuality, deserves dignity, respect and love.

“His famous call to ‘not judge, but walk with’ exemplified a faith rooted in love, empathy and understanding for all people, focusing on compassion rather than condemnation.”

Cardinal Bergoglio of Argentina was in his 70s when he became Pope Francis in 2013.

Last month, he was discharged from hospital after five weeks of treatment for an infection that led to double pneumonia.

Morgan added: “In his final months, he spoke with moral clarity, condemning what he referred to as the ‘genocide’ in Gaza, urging the world to recognise the humanity of all people and to choose peace over destruction.

“In a world that often feels divided, Pope Francis built bridges of unity and his legacy will endure in the lives he touched and the values he championed – values that continue to inspire us here in Wales.

“On behalf of the Welsh government, I offer our deepest sympathies to all those mourning his loss. May he rest in peace, and may his example continue to guide and inspire us all.”