Porto Velho (RO) — April 22, 2025 – Samuel Costa, the spokesperson for Rede Sustentabilidade in Rondônia, announced on Monday that President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has canceled his scheduled visit to the state on Thursday, April 24. This decision follows the passing of Pope Francis earlier today, prompting the president to wish to personally attend the pontiff’s funeral in Rome.
According to Samuel Costa, Lula viewed Pope Francis not only as a significant spiritual leader but also as a personal friend and advisor on various social and environmental issues. “The president was profoundly affected by the news. Francisco has always been an inspiration throughout his public and personal life,” the spokesperson remarked.
Lula’s visit to Rondônia was set to feature a series of official events and meetings with indigenous leaders, environmentalists, and representatives of family agriculture, with expectations of announcing new federal investments for the Amazon region and sustainable development policies for the state.
“A new date will be scheduled in the coming weeks,” Costa stated, emphasizing that the agenda will be reorganized to ensure all previously planned commitments are fulfilled.
The funeral of Pope Francis is expected to gather heads of state and religious leaders from around the world at the Vatican, in a ceremony that will likely have a lasting impact on the recent history of the Catholic Church and international diplomacy.
Rede Sustentabilidade in Rondônia expressed its condolences to the Church and the Catholic community. “Francisco leaves behind a legacy of humility, social justice, and care for our planet. His passing is felt by all of us,” Costa concluded.
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