The upcoming funeral of Pope Francis on Saturday is not just a solemn occasion but also a significant moment in global diplomacy, especially for Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The event provides a rare opportunity for Rome to serve as a central hub for international political dialogue.

US President Donald Trump has confirmed his attendance, joining delegations from over 170 countries. India will be represented by President Droupadi Murmu, who will offer condolences on behalf of the Indian government. The Indian delegation will also include Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State George Kurian, and Goa Deputy Speaker Joshua De Souza.

President Trump’s presence is expected to facilitate high-level discussions that would have otherwise taken months to coordinate. Italian President Sergio Mattarella is anticipated to host a trilateral meeting involving Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and PM Meloni to discuss the future course on the Ukraine conflict.

Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is reportedly seeking a bilateral meeting with Trump during his visit. This comes after Trump accepted Meloni’s earlier invitation for an EU-US summit in Rome in May.

Meloni and Trump are also expected to engage with leaders from the Middle East. Meloni has already spoken with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, and with the Sultan of Oman after his visit to Moscow. Both Trump and Meloni are known allies of Modi, and discussions around South Asia’s security and Indo-Mediterranean relations are expected.

Iran will send a senior delegation, with the new Cardinal of Tehran-Isfahan expected to participate in the upcoming conclave. While Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be present, Russia will be represented by its culture minister.

Among the other high-profile attendees are Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Argentine President Javier Milei, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Prince William.

Despite its lack of diplomatic ties with the Vatican, China has permitted Cardinal Joseph Zen of Hong Kong to attend the funeral. Taiwan will send a high-level delegation, departing from tradition.

Israel will send a small group due to recent tensions with the Vatican. Nevertheless, Chief Rabbi of Rome Riccardo Di Segni and Jewish Community President Victor Fadlun will attend, despite the funeral coinciding with the Jewish Sabbath—a gesture underscoring the deep interfaith respect Pope Francis fostered throughout his papacy.