President Roberta Metsola said Pope Francis would be remembered for his “inspirational leadership, his moral authority, and his kindness, taking every opportunity to speak up for a more humane, more peaceful and unified world”. President Metsola remembered the late Pope’s message to MEPs to “work together every day for a better, more compassionate, and more courageous European Parliament”.

MEPs then held a minute’s silence in memory of Pope Francis, after which political group speakers held a round of short statements.

World War II Anniversary

President Metsola announced that, to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, there would be a wreath laying ceremony at 10:30 on Wednesday in front of the Louise Weiss building, followed by a ceremony in the hemicycle including testimonies from three WWII veterans, at 11:30.

Security Action for Europe (SAFE) Regulation

President Metsola announced that in accordance with Rule 138 of Parliament’s Rules of…