World leaders unite in Vatican City to honor Pope Francis
On Saturday, former President Joe Biden will attend Pope Francis' funeral, accompanied by his wife, Jill Biden, in Vatican City. The current occupant of the White House, Donald Trump, has also announced his participation in the funeral ceremonies.
This information was provided by the Reuters agency, citing Biden's spokesperson.
Joe Biden, who was the second Catholic president in United States history, met with Pope Francis numerous times. Before concluding his term in the White House, Biden honoured the Pope with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The Italian newspaper "Il Messaggero" noted that Biden has viewed the pope as a central figure in his faith, highlighting his belief that Pope Francis teaches the importance of listening to everyone, including those with opposing views.
World leaders gather in Vatican City for funeral
Pope Francis' funeral ceremonies will be held on Saturday, 26th April in St. Peter's Square in Vatican City. Numerous world leaders have declared their readiness to pay tribute to the deceased Pope by attending the ceremony.
Among those who confirmed their attendance at the funeral are US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. Trump expressed his condolences, describing the pope as a good man who dedicated himself to his work and cared deeply for the world. As a gesture of mourning, he also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff.
Emmanuel Macron will also be present. The President of France emphasized that Pope Francis was "always on the side of the most vulnerable and weakest" and that "in times of war and brutality, he had an understanding of others".
Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed condolences on the Pope's passing, highlighting the desire to continue dialogue with the Vatican. China has yet to confirm its representative for the funeral.
Also confirming their presence at the funeral are Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
