Indian President Droupadi Murmu, accompanied by Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and George Kurian, paid respects to Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. This was announced by the Ministry of External Affairs. The President arrived in the Vatican on a two-day visit to attend the official funeral ceremony of Pope Francis.

As a mark of respect to Pope Francis, India declared three days of state mourning. During these days, the national flag will be flown at half-mast and all official entertainment programs will be suspended. In his message of condolence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that Pope Francis was a global symbol of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage.

The funeral ceremony, to be held on Saturday, April 26 at St. Peter’s Square, will be attended by numerous dignitaries, including world leaders and heads of religious institutions.