Pope extends his condolences for Rugova's death, praises his 'solid civic virtues'

VATICAN CITY (AP) - Pope Benedict XVI expressed his condolences Tuesday for the death of Ibrahim Rugova, praising the late Kosovo president's "solid civic virtues" and "generous service" to his fellow citizens.

Rugova died from lung cancer on Saturday at age 61.

In a telegram, the pope extended his "heartfelt condolences for the loss that has hit the Kosovo people and administration, while assuring spiritual closeness in this hour of test."

The pope praised Rugova for "the solid civic virtues that inspired his life and the generous service" to his fellow citizens, said the telegram that Cardinal Angelo Sodano, the Vatican's secretary of state, sent on behalf of the pontiff.