Department for External Church Relations
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Letter of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill to the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan requesting to pardon Asia Bibi
His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia sent a letter to H.E. Mamnoon Hussain, the President of the Islamic Republic of Egypt, asking him to grant a pardon to Asia Bibi, a Christian, who has been sentenced to death. The text is given below.
His Excellency
Mamnoon Hussain
President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Your Excellency,
dear Mr. President:
I was deeply grieved to learn that on 16 October 2014 the Lahore High Court confirmed the decision of the lower court passed earlier to Ms Asia Bibi, a Christian mother-of-five, who has been in prison for a long time.
The execution of Asia Bibi would be an irreparable loss for her family, her near and dear, cause a great damage to the Muslim-Christian dialogue and could also aggravate tension between Christians and Muslims both in Pakistan and in the entire world. I am convinced that political authorities of any modern state should be aware of their responsibility for the destiny of representatives of religious minorities entrusted to them.
The Russian Orthodox Church has shown serious concern over the judgment delivered by the court. Our multimillion flock joins their voice to that of the great number of people throughout the world who advocate for saving the life of this Christian woman.
On behalf of all believers of the Russian Orthodox Church I call You, Mr. President, to grant a pardon to Asia Bibi.
With respect and sincere hope for Your mercy,
+ KIRILL
Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia
Patriarch
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