National Day of Mourning for the Funeral of Pope

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Today has been declared a national day of mourning in Sri Lanka in honour of the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis.

Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, Aloka Bandara, said that a circular has been issued informing all heads of ministries and departments of the declaration.

As a mark of respect, the national flag will be lowered at half-mast at all government institutions across the country.

The funeral of Pope Francis is taking place today at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican.

A Sri Lankan delegation, including Archbishop of Colombo His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith and other Catholic clergy, is attending the ceremony. 

Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath is representing the Sri Lankan government.