Indian President Droupadi Murmu will travel to Vatican City to attend the state funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Thursday that India will officially participate in the international ceremony. Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State, died on April 21 at the age of 88.
MEA Confirms Visit of Indian President Droupadi Murmu
In its release, the MEA stated, “The Hon’ble President of India will visit Vatican City to represent the nation at the State Funeral of HH Pope Francis.” By dispatching President Murmu, India has once again demonstrated its regard for the Pope’s international stature and his leadership of the Catholic Church. The President’s attendance reflects India’s dedication to paying tribute to world leaders of peace, compassion, and humanitarianism.
Leaders from across the continents have reacted with deep sadness to the news of Pope Francis’ death. His funeral will be attended by dozens of heads of state, royals, and dignitaries and will represent one of the largest diplomatic gatherings the Vatican has witnessed in decades.
Global Leaders Join President Draupadi Murmu for Historic Farewell
World leaders like US President Donald Trump, UK’s Prince William, French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia have already confirmed that they will attend. These confirmations indicate the great regard Pope Francis gained during his papacy and the world following for his humanitarian agenda.
President Murmu will not only pay homage on India’s behalf but also interact with other global leaders during the visit. Her presence will further consolidate India’s relations with the Holy See and reaffirm its position in global diplomatic and religious discourse. India’s lively Catholic community, which is a significant component of the country’s religious landscape, also stands acknowledged through this gesture.
Pope Francis’ Legacy of Compassion and Reform
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis was the first Jesuit and the first Latin American to ever head the Catholic Church. During his leadership, he emphasized humility, care of the environment, and openness. Pope Francis consistently spoke on behalf of the oppressed and advocated interfaith tolerance and social justice.
The state funeral at St. Peter’s Basilica will be steeped in high ceremonial protocol and emotional tributes. As global leaders and devout people assemble to bid adieu, President Murmu will stand in as the voice of over a billion Indians to pay their respects to one of the greatest kind-hearted spiritual leaders of this century.
