Rome: President Mahmoud Abbas today visited the tomb of late Pope Francis at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, during the visit, President Abbas laid a wreath of flowers on the tomb in recognition of Pope Francis' support for the Palestinian people and their cause. This includes the Holy See's recognition of the State of Palestine in 2015 and the Pope's historic 2014 visit to Palestine, where he toured Bethlehem and East Jerusalem and reinforced his commitment to peace and justice.
President Abbas also reflected on Pope Francis's calls for an end to the war in Gaza and his personal outreach to affected Palestinian families, including those connected to the Holy Family Church in Gaza. These actions were seen as a testament to his humanity and dedication to mercy and peace worldwide.
President Abbas arrived on Wednesday in Rome for an official three-day visit to the Italian Republic.