Pope laments senseless Pakistan attack

(ANSA) - Vatican City, August 9 - Pope Francis on Tuesday his condolences to Pakistan's ecclesiastical and civilian authorities following an attack on a Quetta hospital and called for solidarity for those affected by a hurricane in Mexico.
    ''Deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life following the attack on a hospital in Quetta,'' reads the telegram sent by the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
    ''His Holiness Pope Francis sends heartfelt condolences to the relatives of the deceased, to the authorities and to the entire nation, as he offers the assurance of his prayers for the many injured victims of this senseless and brutal act of violence. ''Upon all who mourn and upon all who have been affected by this tragedy, His Holiness invokes the divine gifts of consolation and strength''.
    On Hurricane Earl in Mexico, which has killed dozens and left hundreds displaced, Pope Francis called for solidarity for survivors and sent his condolences to victims' families, reported Vatican Radio.
    The hurricane hit the Puebla and Veracruz states of Mexico first and left over 40 dead including many children. A telegram sent to the Mexican Episcopal Conference stated that: ''in the face of the grave damage caused by the hurricane which affected several areas of the country - causing numerous victims and extensive material damage - the Holy Father expresses his affection for the beloved Mexican people, offering his prayers for those who lost their lives and desiring to show his closeness to their families and the victims.
    ''At the same time, His Holiness asks the Lord to sustain the will of the authorities and people of Mexico and to awaken in all a spirit of solidarity''.