Taiwan's President Pays Respects to Pope Francis, Vatican Attendance Uncertain

President Lai Ching-te Honors the Late Pope Amidst Diplomatic Considerations.

Taipei, April 23 – President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) of Taiwan offered his respects to the late Pope Francis in Taipei, triggering discussion regarding the potential for presidential attendance at the funeral.

President Lai honored Pope Francis during a visit to the Catholic Archdiocese of Taipei. He participated in a traditional ceremony, which included offering incense, sprinkling holy water, and presenting flowers and fruit, before concluding with three bows.

He was joined by Deputy Foreign Minister François Wu (吳志中) and Archbishop of Taipei Thomas Chung (鍾安住).

Following the announcement of Pope Francis' passing on Monday, President Lai expressed his condolences through social media, emphasizing, "we will continue to draw inspiration from [Francis'] lifelong commitment to peace, global solidarity, and caring for those in need."

Pope Francis passed away at his residence at the age of 88.

During the Wednesday visit, President Lai did not address media inquiries concerning his attendance at the upcoming funeral at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City on April 26 (local time).

However, Wu informed reporters that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) was actively engaged in discussions with the Vatican.

"We are doing our utmost," Wu stated regarding the efforts to facilitate a visit by the President to the Vatican, while also acknowledging the possibility of "certain concerns" from the Holy See, but refraining from elaborating further.

The Vatican maintains formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, representing one of twelve countries worldwide and the only one within Europe.

Past Taiwanese presidents have participated in significant papal events, including former President Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) at Pope Francis's inauguration in 2013.

Additionally, Ma's predecessor, Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁), attended the funeral of Pope John Paul II in 2005.

It is noteworthy that the Holy See and China do not share diplomatic relations. However, in 2018, both sides signed a landmark agreement concerning the appointment of bishops in China.

Although the Vatican asserted the agreement was not political, some Western media characterized it as an indication of improving relations between the two.