He was "deeply saddened by the massive loss of life' caused by the earthquake in south-east Turkey, assuring all those affected of his spiritual closeness", according to a telegramme sent to the apostolic nuncio there.
In addition to his "closeness" and "condolences", he expressed encouragement to the rescue personnel.
The Pontiff also expressed similar sentiments for the victims of the earthquake in northwest Syria, according to a second telegramme sent to the nuncio there.
The two telegrams were sent on behalf of the Pope by Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin to the apostolic nuncios in Turkey and Syria, Mgr. Marek Solczynski and Cardinal Mario Zenari.
The World Health Organization (WHO) expects a significant jump in the death toll as rescuers search through tangles of metal and concrete for survivors in a region beset by Syria's 12-year civil war and a refugee crisis.
Ankara has accepted Italy's offer of help for the huge earthquake and an Italian fire service and civil protection search and rescue team has left for the zone, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Monday.
Tajani said that he had spoken with his Turkish counterpart Mavlut Cavusoglu to express Italy's support and offer the help of the Italian Civil Protection Department.
"At 2.15 pm the reconnaissance team of our Civil Defence left," he said.
"The operational rescue team will also leave shortly".
Tajani said "Italy always stands out for its solidarity".
ANSA
