Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus is set to attend Pope Francis' funeral, his Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told UNB yesterday. Pope Francis' funeral will be held on Saturday, with public viewing starting today. The pope will be laid to rest on Saturday after lying in state for three days in St Peter's Basilica, where the faithful are expected to pay their respects to history's first Latin American pontiff. Yunus expressed profound condolences on behalf of the government and people of Bangladesh at the passing of Pope Francis, describing him as a beacon of peace, humanity and unity. In his message to Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, Vatican City, Prof Yunus said his leadership transcended religious boundaries and inspired millions to step up efforts to build a more inclusive, tolerant and compassionate world. "I have been honoured to meet many times with Pope Francis and to work closely with him to foster peace, human dignity and environmental stewardship," he said. "The people of Bangladesh, who were deeply honoured by His Holiness' historic visit to our country in 2017, join the global community in mourning this great loss," said the chief adviser. "During this time of sorrow, we stand in solidarity with the Catholic Church and people of faith around the globe, remembering the profound impact of his teachings and the kindness he extended to all," he said.