Following a deadly bomb attack in the resort city of Kusadasi, Turkey on Saturday, Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Vatican Secretary of State, sent a letter of condolence, in the Pope's name, to Archbishop Edmond Farhat, apostolic nuncio to Turkey, imploring God’s mercy on the victims and consolation for their families.

Cardinal Sodano wrote that, "Informed of the deadly explosion that took place recently in Turkey, the Holy Father implores the mercy of the Almighty for the people who lost their lives in the horrific attack and the consolation of God on their suffering families.”

“He express his heartfelt sympathy”, the letter continues, “to the numerous people injured in this drama and to their families, as well as to the Turkish authorities and people."