It was with deep regret that the International Committee of the Red Cross learned of the death of Pope John XXIII. Mr. Leopold Boissier, President of the ICRC, sent the following telegram to the Secretary of State of the Vatican:

I am profoundly moved by the demise of His Holiness John XXIII of whom I personally shall retain a vivid memory for his beneficent attitude and benevolent support to the humanitarian tasks of the Red Cross. The International Committee of the Red Cross pays homage to the great personality of Pope John XXIII, who worked so intensively for peace. I request you to receive and to convey to the College of Cardinals the expression of my most respectful condolences.