El Salvador joined the international community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, the first Latin American Pope, whose profound legacy of humility, faith, and unity marked a historic era in the Catholic Church and beyond.
Appointed by President Nayib Bukele, Vice President Félix Ulloa Jr. traveled to Vatican City State to represent El Salvador at the Pope’s solemn funeral. Upon arrival at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, Vice President Ulloa was received in the VIP lounge by three monsignors from the Vatican Secretariat of State.
Accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Lillian de Ulloa, and Ambassador Anabella Morfin de Machuca, Vice President Ulloa was officially welcomed by Monsignor Javier Fernández, Chief of Protocol of the Holy See (@TerzaLoggia), who led the delegation through the Porta della Preghiera (Gate of Prayer)—a passage typically reserved for popes, cardinals, and high dignitaries—into the funeral chapel.
There, El Salvador paid tribute to Pope Francis, honoring his enduring spiritual legacy. The ceremony brought together more than 130 international delegations, including 50 heads of state and 10 monarchs. Vice President Ulloa engaged in diplomatic conversations with the Grand Duchess of Luxembourg, Maria Teresa, President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, and several other global leaders, strengthening El Salvador’s presence in high-level international forums.
As the world reflects on the impact of Pope Francis’ life and leadership, El Salvador stands in solidarity with the global community, reaffirming its commitment to peace, dialogue, and faith-driven values on the world stage.