Lindh, 46, died on Thursday, the day after she was stabbed by an unknown assailant in a Stockholm department store.
A telegram sent by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Angelo Sodano says that the Pope «was saddened to learn of the violent death of Anna Lindh,» and «sends heartfelt condolences to the government, Ms. Lindh’s family, and the entire nation.»
«Commending the Minister’s soul to the benevolent mercy of Almighty God, His Holiness invokes the divine gifts of consolation and strength upon all who mourn her passing,» the telegram continues, sent to Swedish Prime Minister Goran Persson.
«I add the expression of my own personal sympathy on this sad occasion and assure you of my prayers,» the messages concludes.
The Pope is on an apostolic visit to Slovakia until Sunday.
