Brussels, 18 March 2012 – “I was deeply saddened to learn the news of the death of Pope Shenouda III, the Head of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. Pope Shenouda was a respected national and religious leader who has always strived for freedom of religion and belief. The best tribute Egypt could pay to his memory would be to fully protect these rights and preserve national unity. On behalf of the European Commission I would like to offer my sincere condolences to all the Coptic community.”