Pope Francis has been discharged from the hospital and is now recovering at his residence. This has prompted the postponement of the planned state visit by King Charles III and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom to the Vatican.
On Tuesday, Buckingham Palace announced that the royal couple’s visit to the Vatican had been postponed by mutual agreement. The decision follows the latest medical advice, which suggests that Francis needs more time for rest and rehabilitation. The Palace added that Charles III and Queen Camilla wish the Pope a speedy recovery and look forward to meeting him at the Vatican once he has fully recuperated. Charles III was initially scheduled to visit Italy and Vatican City from April 7 to 10, with a planned meeting with the Pope on April 8.
Francis was hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital starting on February 14 to treat pneumonia and faced a severe decline in his condition. After overcoming this critical period, he was discharged on Sunday and returned to his residence at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican. His doctors have recommended that he rest and undergo rehabilitation for at least two months to recover fully. Based on this advice, Buckingham Palace and the Vatican have postponed the planned visit. Charles III’s state visit to Italy will proceed with an adjusted schedule.