President Murmu Leaves for Vatican City to Attend Pope Francis’ Funeral

Swift Summary

• President Droupadi Murmu has departed for Vatican City to attend Pope Francis’ state funeral.
• She is accompanied by union minister Kiren Rijiju, minister of state George Kurian, and Goa deputy assembly speaker Joshua De Souza.
• Murmu will represent the government and people of India during her two-day visit and lay a wreath at the Basilica of Saint Peter.
• Pope Francis, the first non-European Pope in nearly 1,300 years, passed away at 88 on easter Monday.
• India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated that President Murmu woudl attend the funeral Mass at Saint Peter’s Square alongside global dignitaries.
• India declared three days of official mourning to honor Pope Francis’ passing.

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Indian Opinion Analysis

President Murmu’s attendance at Pope Francis’ funeral strengthens India’s commitment to global diplomacy and interfaith dialog by paying respects to a religious leader revered worldwide. As a country with significant Catholic representation in its population (particularly in states like Kerala and Goa), this gesture reflects efforts towards inclusivity within domestic communities while underscoring mutual respect between nations on religious matters.

furthermore, declaring three days of mourning signifies India’s recognition of the late pontiff’s contributions beyond religion-such as his humanitarian work-which aligns with universally shared values like peace-building and service to marginalized groups.

From a diplomatic perspective, Murmu engaging with other world leaders assembled for this occasion provides an prospect for India to enhance bilateral relations amidst solemnity-a soft power initiative emphasizing shared humanity during challenging times globally.