Spain's Royal Family Leads Delegation to Pope Francis' Funeral Amid Global Attendance
Pedro Sánchez will not attend the funeral of Pope Francis this Saturday in Rome. Instead, the Spanish delegation will be headed by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, accompanied by Vice Presidents María Jesús Montero and Yolanda Díaz, Minister of the Presidency Félix Bolaños, and the leader of the Popular Party, Alberto Núñez Feijóo. Minister Bolaños confirmed the members of this delegation during a media statement at the Apostolic Nunciature in Spain, which opened its doors this Tuesday for citizens to sign a condolence book for the deceased Pontiff.
The funeral of Pope Francis is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 AM, and will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. The official delegation from the Kingdom of Spain is expected to embody the state’s homage, reflecting the significance of the event. Minister Bolaños mentioned that the Royals, who earlier visited the Apostolic Nunciature to pay their respects, would lead the delegation as the head of state.
Notably, sources from Genoa indicated that discussions were ongoing with Moncloa (the Prime Minister's office) regarding the participation of Alberto Núñez Feijóo at the funeral. It's confirmed that the leader of the opposition will be in Rome this Saturday.
Numerous international leaders have also confirmed their presence at the funeral, including US President Donald Trump, accompanied by his wife Melania, French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as well as the heads of various European institutions, and royal representatives from Belgium among others.
As the world gathers in Rome to bid farewell to Pope Francis, the attendance of these prominent figures highlights the global impact of the late Pontiff, who influenced millions during his papacy.
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