Francis inherited a deeply divided Church after the resignation of his predecessor, Benedict XVI. Under his leadership, he appointed more women in senior Vatican roles.
The Pope made his last public appearance on Easter, when he delivered a message from the balcony of St Peter's Basilica to thousands gathered in Vatican Square.
As the 88-year-old pontiff battles pneumonia in both his lungs, the Vatican said in a statement that the Pope continues to be 'vigilant and well-oriented'.
Carlo Acutis, who died of leukaemia in 2006 aged 15, used computer skills to spread Catholic faith during his short life. He was beatified in 2020 after one miracle was attributed to him.
The Vatican's doctrinal office said transgender people could be godparents at baptism as well as wedding witnesses, but the local priest should exercise 'pastoral prudence' in his decision.
Pakistan lacks capacity to deliver aircraft at pace suggested by its claimed contracts as it depends on China for avionics, electronic warfare, weapons, and on Russia for engines.
UK, EFTA already in the bag and EU on the way, many members of RCEP except China signed up, and even restrictions on China being lifted, India has changed its mind on trade.
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