Illness forces Pope Francis to cancel visit to COP28

Pope Francis will not be attending the COP28 climate summit in Dubai due to illness, according to the Vatican. The 86-year-old pope was scheduled to start his three-day visit on Friday. Despite plans to go ahead with the trip initially, the Vatican announced that the pope's doctors advised against it. Although his condition has improved since suffering from flu and respiratory tract inflammation, his doctors recommended against traveling. Last weekend, the pope cancelled events due to mild flu symptoms and underwent medical tests. He has experienced several health issues this year, including bronchitis and abdominal surgery. While in Dubai, the pope intended to address countries for their inaction on climate change and urge them to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Despite his absence, the Vatican stated that the pope still wants to contribute to the discussions. Climate change will be a central topic at the upcoming UN summit in the United Arab Emirates, with participation from over 200 governments, charities, think tanks, and businesses.