Daijiworld Media Network - Vatican City
Vatican City, Apr 26: President Droupadi Murmu, who is on a visit to Vatican City, paid her respects to the late Pope Francis at the Basilica of Saint Peter on Friday, as part of her participation in the State funeral of the revered pontiff.
Sharing the moment on her official X handle, the President's office posted, “President Droupadi Murmu paid homage to His holiness Pope Francis at the Basilica of Saint Peter in Vatican City.”
President Murmu arrived in the Vatican earlier in the day, accompanied by union minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju. The Indian delegation also includes minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, George Kurian, and deputy speaker of Goa Assembly, Joshua De Souza.
Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88, will be laid to rest following a State funeral scheduled at Saint Peter's Square on Friday, April 26. The event is expected to witness the presence of several world leaders and dignitaries.
According to the ministry of External Affairs, President Murmu will represent India at the funeral and offer condolences on behalf of the Government and the people of India. The Vatican confirmed that at least 130 foreign delegations, including 50 heads of state and 10 reigning monarchs, will attend the solemn ceremony.
Among those expected are US President Donald Trump, UK’s Prince William, French President Emmanuel Macron, Spanish royals King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Pope Francis, describing him as ‘a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage.’ In a heartfelt tribute on X, PM Modi recalled his meetings with the Pope and said his affection for the people of India would always be remembered.
“From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope,” the Prime Minister stated.
“May his soul find eternal peace in God's embrace,” he added.