Kings, queens, presidents and prime ministers from more than 90 countries are expected to attend the canonizations of Pope John XXIII and Pope John Paul II in Rome today.

Some 20 Jewish leaders from the U.S., Israel, Italy, Francis' native Argentina and Poland were also taking part, in a clear sign of their appreciation for the great strides made in Catholic-Jewish relations under John, John Paul — and their successors celebrating the Mass.

Malta is represented by a delegation led by Speaker of the House of Representatives Anglu Farrugia, and including PN deputy leader Beppe Fenech Adami and Mrs Michelle Muscat, wife of Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.

President Marie Louise-Coleiro Preca cancelled her participation at the event after it had been announced it her engagements for the week ending 27 April. No official reason has been given.

The government is also not represented at the ceremony.