John Swinney paid tribute to the “enormous contribution” Pope Francis has made to the world following his funeral.
The First Minister was in the Vatican City with heads of state from around the world for the service on Saturday.
Speaking afterwards he revealed how it was an “amazingly moving” experience.
He said: “It has been an amazingly moving experience to be in Rome today for the funeral of Pope Francis.
“I feel so privileged to be able to convey the admiration and respect of the people of Scotland for the spiritual leadership he has given the world and the example of his affinity and support for the poor and those who suffer injustice.
“It was a beautiful and very moving ceremony and tribute to an incredible leader of the Catholic community and one which reminds us of the importance of the contribution he has made to this world.
“Pope Francis has made an enormous contribution to the world.”
Francis was described as “a pope among people” with around 200,000 mourners paying their respect.
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