The Pope’s decision to resign showed that he had the courage to act in the best interest of the Church, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi said this morning.

He told timesofmalta.com that the news of the Pope’s resignation took everyone by surprise.

“I admire the courage he showed… that he did not fear taking a decision that has not been taken in 600 years,” Dr Gonzi said.

He said this augured well for the Catholic Church.

“I admire this Pope who had to face many difficulties during his papacy and managed to address very difficult situations with a Christian spirit,” he said.

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