King Charles and Queen Camilla had a surprise private meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican on Wednesday afternoon – and were “delighted” he “was well enough to host them”.
The trio met for around 20 minutes, with Royal sources saying The Pope took the opportunity to wish Their Majesties a Happy Anniversary on the day of their 20th wedding anniversary. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: “Their Majesties were delighted The Pope was well enough to host them – and to have had the opportunity to share their best wishes in person.”
The Holy Father issued an invitation to Their Majesties for a private audience, given the official State Visit was postponed after he was hospitalised recently with double pneumonia. The pontiff was diagnosed with a “complex” respiratory infection after being rushed to Rome’s Gemelli hospital in February with severe chest pain.
King Charles and Camilla’s Principal Private Secretary, Sir Clive Alderton, and Her Majesty’s Deputy Private Secretary, Mrs Belinda Kim were also in attendance. Discussions about a Holy See State Visit continue between the palace and the Vatican.
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