Pope Francis, who recently revealed that he is experiencing lung inflammation, will still travel to Dubai this week to address the COP28 conference on climate change. Despite his health condition, the pope delivered the traditional noon blessing from the Vatican hotel chapel. The Vatican previously mentioned that Francis had a CT scan for pulmonary complications at a Rome hospital, with the results coming back negative.

Pope Francis expected to travel to climate conference despite 'inflammation of the lungs' | Washington Examiner https://t.co/xSV4cZWciq

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The pope expressed his concern about climate change, particularly its impact on young people. He thanked everyone for their prayers and confirmed that he would still be delivering his scheduled speech on Saturday in Dubai. During his televised appearance, Pope Francis explained that he was unable to appear at his usual window overlooking St. Peter's Square due to his lung inflammation. Instead, he had a priest read out his reflections for the day. The pontiff, who will celebrate his 87th birthday next month, expressed his commitment to attending the COP28 gathering on climate change in the United Arab Emirates.

He emphasized that climate change poses a serious threat to the world, especially for future generations. Reporters noticed that Pope Francis had a bandage on his right hand and what appeared to be a cannula. However, the Vatican did not immediately address whether he was receiving intravenous treatment. This raised questions about the discrepancy between the pope's statement about his lung inflammation and the Vatican's earlier mention of a negative CT scan for pulmonary complications. Despite these concerns, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude towards those who would be following his three-day trip to Dubai with prayers.

He also reminded everyone to continue praying for him. Earlier this year, he was hospitalized for pneumonia, which was described as a case of bronchitis requiring intravenous antibiotics. The unusual weather in Rome, marked by strong winds and colder temperatures than usual for late autumn, might have contributed to Pope Francis' respiratory inflammation. Nevertheless, his determination to prioritize climate change issues and attend the COP28 conference in Dubai showcases his commitment to safeguarding the environment and the future of the planet.