The European Parliament is meeting again in Strasbourg for its plenary session from today until Thursday, 8 May. At the opening of the session this afternoon, MEPs will hold a debate to commemorate the passing of Pope Francis. The discussion will be opened by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, followed by a round of speakers on behalf of the political groups. “Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and first Latin American pope, led the Catholic Church since 2013. He passed away on 21 April”, a statement from Parliament reads. “His funeral, held on 26 April, was attended by many European and world leaders”. Following this, MEPs will discuss the priorities and demands for the first EU-UK summit on British soil since Brexit with Commissioner Šefčovič and Polish Minister for European Union Affairs Adam Szłapka (on behalf of the European Council). Other topics for discussion at the 19 May meeting should include defence cooperation, opportunities for young people, and trade issues.