It is with deep sadness that we attended Pope Francis' funeral today. We gathered at his tomb, which bears only the simple inscription “Francisco,” reflecting this pope who was close to the people and loved for his humility and evangelical simplicity.

Francis will be remembered as an authentic pastor, simple but firm in his convictions, deeply attached to ordinary people and to the peripheries of the world. His commitment to universal fraternity, embodied in particular in the encyclical Fratelli Tutti, remains a powerful call for solidarity, dialogue, and peace among all peoples. We will continue our efforts in this spirit...

It was a pleasure to meet up again with FERAM and its president in Paris for a dinner debate on the Vatican's role in international relations. The evening provided a valuable opportunity to discuss with civil society their expectations for a peaceful world and to highlight the Holy See's work through its extensive network in education, humanitarian aid, and assistance to the most disadvantaged. It was a constructive dialogue that demonstrated the Vatican's moral and diplomatic influence on the international stage.

A memorable meeting at the Geneva Diplomatic Club with Mr. Lech Wałęsa, 1983 Nobel Peace Prize winner, co-founder of the Solidarność movement, and former President of the Republic of Poland from 1990 to 1995. This meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views with a major historical figure in the struggle for freedom and democracy in Eastern Europe. A lesson that resonates all the more in light of the contemporary challenges facing democracy.