At today’s sitting, the Romanian Government is to discuss a draft decision declaring April 26 a day of national mourning in Romania in memory of Pope Francis.

According to the draft published in decision-making transparency on the website of the General Secretariat of the Government, on the day of national mourning all central and local public administration institutions and authorities will fly the flag of Romania at half-mast.

„The flag of Romania at half-mast shall also be hoisted: at the headquarters of political parties, trade unions, employers’ associations, educational establishments of any degree, cultural organisations and diplomatic missions of Romania; at border crossings, as well as at airports, ports, train stations and bus stations; as a flag on ships of any kind and on other vessels sailing under the Romanian flag.”

The same obligation is incumbent on individuals, if they fly the Romanian flag at home or at residence, according to the draft.

Radio and television stations, as well as cultural organisations are to adjust their programmes accordingly.

The funeral of Pope Francis, who died on Monday at the age of 88, will take place on Saturday morning in St. Peter’s Square, where hundreds of thousands of faithful are expected to arrive.

AGERPRES