Premier Giorgia Meloni paid tribute to Pope John Paul II on Wednesday on the 20th anniversary of the saint’s death.

“20 years ago, on April 2, 2005, Saint John Paul II passed from earth to heaven,” Meloni said on social media.

“His spiritual strength, his love for freedom and his ability to bring men and women of every generation and latitude closer to faith remain alive in the memory and hearts of billions of people.

“I am honored to have met and known such an extraordinary figure who, with his life, his actions and his example, shaped the 20th century and changed history.

“Thank you for everything, Saint John Paul II”.