Pope Francis Cancels COP28 Visit Due to Health Concerns

Despite Influenza and Lung Inflammation, Pope Wishes to Participate in Climate Discussions

Pope Francis has cancelled his trip to the COP28 climate summit in Dubai due to influenza and lung inflammation.
The Pope, who is 86 years old and had part of one lung removed as a young man, was advised by his doctors not to travel.
Despite his illness, Pope Francis still wishes to participate in the discussions at the summit, though it is unclear how this will be achieved.
The Pope has made the environment a key pillar of his papacy and has previously warned that the world is 'collapsing' due to climate change.
This is the second time the Pope's health has forced the cancellation of a foreign trip, after he had to postpone a planned trip to Congo and South Sudan in 2022 due to knee inflammation.