Vatican’s Secretary of State condoles the death of Giulio Andreotti

Vatican City, 07 May 2013: Vatican’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone condoled the death of former Italian Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti..In a letter addressed to the wife of Andreotti, the Cardinal praised his fruitful life, saying he was a ‘man of faith and devoted son of the Church’. Assuring his fervent remembrance in prayer, the Cardinal comforted those who morn his loss.'Giulio Andreotti, 's former seven-time Prime Minister and a symbol of postwar Italy has died at his home in Rome on Monday. He was 94. Announcing the death, the mayor of Rome, Gianni Alemanno, called Andreotti "the most representative politician" Italy had known in its recent history.
At his prime, Andreotti was one of Italy's most powerful men: he helped draft the country's constitution after the second world war, sat in parliament for 60 years and served as premier seven times. Until his death, he remained a senator-for-life.
But the Christian Democrat who was friends with popes and cardinals was also a controversial figure who survived corruption scandals and allegations of aiding the Mafia.
He was accused of exchanging a "kiss of honour" with the mob's longtime No 1 boss and was indicted in what was called the trial of the century in Palermo. He was eventually cleared of charges.
Andreotti was as known for his political acumen as for his subtle humour and witty allusions. With sharp eyes, thin lips and a stooped figure, he was immediately recognisable to generations of Italians. Friends and foes alike admired his intellectual agility and grasp of the issues.