In a statement, King Charles said: "My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis. Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the Church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry.

Despite his struggles, the Pope continued to work and devote his life to service in his final days, even finding the strength to receive King Charles and Queen Camilla during their State Visit to Italy just 13 days ago. While a meeting was originally planned, it was mutually decided to postpone it following the Pope's illness.