Pope Francis on Thursday May 6 expressed his “
solidarity
” to all Indians facing a devastating epidemic of the coronavirus, praising the “
tireless work
” of the country's doctors and medical workers.
Read also: Covid-19: India becomes the new epicenter of the pandemic
In a letter sent to the Indian Bishops' Conference, the Pope underlined “
his solidarity from the heart and his spiritual closeness to all Indians
”.
“
My thoughts go out above all to all the sick and their families, to those who care for them and in particular to those who are in mourning for their loved ones,
” writes the Argentine Pope.
"
I also think of the many doctors, nurses, hospital workers, ambulance drivers and those working tirelessly to meet the urgent needs of their brothers and sisters,
" he added, encouraging them to "
perseverance, strength and peace
".
Finally, the Sovereign Pontiff also had a thought for the priests, men and women religious who lost their lives by contracting Covid-19.
India announced on Thursday a record of nearly 4,000 deaths from Covid-19 and 412,000 new infections in 24 hours, while the authorities warn that the country must prepare to face "
new waves
".