Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni Visits Pope Francis in Hospital, Says He is Doing Well

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni Visits Pope Francis in Hospital, Says He is Doing Well

Rome — Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited Pope Francis at Rome's Gemelli hospital on Wednesday and reported that he was "alert and responsive" and in good spirits, despite the 88-year-old pontiff suffering from pneumonia and a complicated bronchial infection, which has kept him resting for the past six days.

Meloni said she had come to wish the pope a speedy recovery on behalf of the government and the entire nation. She said, "We joked around as we always do. He has not lost his customary sense of humor."

This visit marked the first confirmed external visitor for the pope, other than his doctors and medical team, since he was admitted to the hospital last Friday. Since then, no photos of the pope have been released, so Meloni's visit served as a reassurance to the Italian public.

Pope Francis, who lost part of one lung in his youth, has been eating and doing some work while lying in bed during his hospital stay. However, he will require special treatment for further improvement in his health.

Many people in Italy are praying for the pope’s recovery, and there have been calls for an hour of silent prayer for his swift healing. Various pilgrims and faithful have gathered near Gemelli hospital to offer their prayers.

Additionally, Meloni’s visit is seen as a symbol of respect and love from the people of Italy for the pope.