President Anura Kumara Disanayake paid a visit to the Vatican Embassy this afternoon (24) to extend his condolences on the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.

Upon his arrival, the President was warmly received by Most Reverend Archbishop Brian N. Udaigwe, the Apostolic Nuncio of the Vatican to Sri Lanka.

Following a brief discussion with Archbishop Udaigwe, President Disanayake signed the book of condolence, conveying, on behalf of the Government and the people of Sri Lanka, heartfelt sympathies to the global Christian community on the demise of His Holiness Pope Francis.

(President’s Media Division)

The Ministry of Education has announced that all schools across the country will be closed on May 05 and 06 due to the Local Government elections. 

The Ministry further stated that schools will resume normal operations on May 07.

The Sri Lankan government has decided to declare April 26, 2025, a National Day of Mourning in view of the late Pope Francis’s funeral.

In a statement, the Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government  announces that all national flags at state institutions will be flown half-mast on April 26.