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PHOTO COLLECTION: Pope Visits Singapore

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PHOTO COLLECTION: Pope Visits Singapore
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PHOTO COLLECTION: Pope Visits Singapore

2024-09-12 18:41 Last Updated At:18:51

This is a collection of photos chosen by AP photo editors.

Pope Francis waves as he arrives at the National Stadium to celebrate a mass in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Suhaimi Abdullah)

Pope Francis waves as he arrives at the National Stadium to celebrate a mass in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Suhaimi Abdullah)

A woman shows a celebrative t-shirt as she waits in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

A woman shows a celebrative t-shirt as she waits in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Faithful wait in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. At left a statue of the Holy Mary. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Faithful wait in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. At left a statue of the Holy Mary. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

A woman gets emotional as Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

A woman gets emotional as Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis waves as he arrives to lead a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis waves as he arrives to lead a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis arrives at Singapore SportsHub National Stadium to preside over a mass celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, right, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis arrives at Singapore SportsHub National Stadium to preside over a mass celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, right, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

An aide holds a child for Pope Francis' blessings after he arrived to preside a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

An aide holds a child for Pope Francis' blessings after he arrived to preside a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Faithful wait in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, center right, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Faithful wait in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, center right, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis waves as he arrives to lead a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis waves as he arrives to lead a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

The faithful follow Pope Francis presiding over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The faithful follow Pope Francis presiding over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The faithful follow Pope Francis presiding over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The faithful follow Pope Francis presiding over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis leads a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis leads a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis leads a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis leads a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis, left, presiders over a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis, left, presiders over a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis signs the book of honor during a welcome ceremony with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, left, at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis signs the book of honor during a welcome ceremony with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, left, at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis with Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, attends a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis with Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, attends a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The car carrying Pope Francis leaves from the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

The car carrying Pope Francis leaves from the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Motorcade of Pope Francis arrive at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Motorcade of Pope Francis arrive at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis waves as he departs National University of Singapore after delivering the state address in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024.(AP Photo/Suhaimi Abdullah)

Pope Francis waves as he departs National University of Singapore after delivering the state address in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024.(AP Photo/Suhaimi Abdullah)

Pope Francis waves from the car, as he leaves from the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis waves from the car, as he leaves from the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

The guard of honor is lined up awaiting the arrival of Pope Francis for a welcome ceremony with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The guard of honor is lined up awaiting the arrival of Pope Francis for a welcome ceremony with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis attends a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis attends a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis blesses a child as he departs National University of Singapore after delivering the state address in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024.(AP Photo/Suhaimi Abdullah)

Pope Francis blesses a child as he departs National University of Singapore after delivering the state address in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024.(AP Photo/Suhaimi Abdullah)

Pope Francis travels in a buggy as he greets the volunteers on his arrival in Singapore, Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis travels in a buggy as he greets the volunteers on his arrival in Singapore, Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis is greeted by the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, during a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis is greeted by the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, during a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Chief Executive Officer of the Singapore's National Parks Board Hwang Yu-Ning, right, and Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, left, present Pope Francis with a 'Dendrobium His Holiness Pope Francis', a specially bred orchid variety named after him in honor of his visit to Singapore during a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Chief Executive Officer of the Singapore's National Parks Board Hwang Yu-Ning, right, and Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, left, present Pope Francis with a 'Dendrobium His Holiness Pope Francis', a specially bred orchid variety named after him in honor of his visit to Singapore during a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis arrives with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, third from left, for a visit to the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis arrives with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, third from left, for a visit to the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam with Minister of Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong, the Ambassador of Singapore to the Holy See Ang Janet Guat Har and other authorities wait for Pope Francis at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam with Minister of Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong, the Ambassador of Singapore to the Holy See Ang Janet Guat Har and other authorities wait for Pope Francis at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis addresses Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, and the audience during a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis addresses Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, and the audience during a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis addresses Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, and the audience during a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis addresses Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, and the audience during a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Chief Executive Officer of the Singapore's National Parks Board Hwang Yu-Ning presents Pope Francis with a 'Dendrobium His Holiness Pope Francis', a specially bred orchid variety named after him at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Chief Executive Officer of the Singapore's National Parks Board Hwang Yu-Ning presents Pope Francis with a 'Dendrobium His Holiness Pope Francis', a specially bred orchid variety named after him at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis and Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, third from left, leave at the end of a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis and Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, third from left, leave at the end of a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

More Images
Pope Francis waves as he arrives at the National Stadium to celebrate a mass in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Suhaimi Abdullah)

This is a collection of photos chosen by AP photo editors.

A woman shows a celebrative t-shirt as she waits in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

A woman shows a celebrative t-shirt as she waits in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Faithful wait in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. At left a statue of the Holy Mary. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Faithful wait in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. At left a statue of the Holy Mary. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

A woman gets emotional as Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

A woman gets emotional as Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis waves as he arrives to lead a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis waves as he arrives to lead a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis arrives at Singapore SportsHub National Stadium to preside over a mass celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, right, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis arrives at Singapore SportsHub National Stadium to preside over a mass celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, right, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

An aide holds a child for Pope Francis' blessings after he arrived to preside a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

An aide holds a child for Pope Francis' blessings after he arrived to preside a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Faithful wait in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, center right, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Faithful wait in the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium where Pope Francis will preside over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, center right, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis waves as he arrives to lead a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis waves as he arrives to lead a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

The faithful follow Pope Francis presiding over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The faithful follow Pope Francis presiding over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis presides over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The faithful follow Pope Francis presiding over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The faithful follow Pope Francis presiding over a mass 'In Memory of the Most Holy Name of Mary' celebrated by the Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye at the Singapore SportsHub National Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis has praised Singapore's economic development as a testament to human ingenuity. But he's urging the city-state to look after the weakest too. Francis made the remarks Thursday on the final leg of the longest and farthest tour of his papacy. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis leads a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis leads a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis leads a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis leads a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis, left, presiders over a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis, left, presiders over a holy mass at the SportsHub National Stadium in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis signs the book of honor during a welcome ceremony with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, left, at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis signs the book of honor during a welcome ceremony with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, left, at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis with Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, attends a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis with Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, attends a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The car carrying Pope Francis leaves from the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

The car carrying Pope Francis leaves from the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Motorcade of Pope Francis arrive at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Motorcade of Pope Francis arrive at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis waves as he departs National University of Singapore after delivering the state address in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024.(AP Photo/Suhaimi Abdullah)

Pope Francis waves as he departs National University of Singapore after delivering the state address in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024.(AP Photo/Suhaimi Abdullah)

Pope Francis waves from the car, as he leaves from the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis waves from the car, as he leaves from the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

The guard of honor is lined up awaiting the arrival of Pope Francis for a welcome ceremony with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The guard of honor is lined up awaiting the arrival of Pope Francis for a welcome ceremony with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis attends a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis attends a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis blesses a child as he departs National University of Singapore after delivering the state address in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024.(AP Photo/Suhaimi Abdullah)

Pope Francis blesses a child as he departs National University of Singapore after delivering the state address in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024.(AP Photo/Suhaimi Abdullah)

Pope Francis travels in a buggy as he greets the volunteers on his arrival in Singapore, Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis travels in a buggy as he greets the volunteers on his arrival in Singapore, Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

Pope Francis is greeted by the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, during a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis is greeted by the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, during a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Chief Executive Officer of the Singapore's National Parks Board Hwang Yu-Ning, right, and Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, left, present Pope Francis with a 'Dendrobium His Holiness Pope Francis', a specially bred orchid variety named after him in honor of his visit to Singapore during a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Chief Executive Officer of the Singapore's National Parks Board Hwang Yu-Ning, right, and Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, left, present Pope Francis with a 'Dendrobium His Holiness Pope Francis', a specially bred orchid variety named after him in honor of his visit to Singapore during a welcome ceremony at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis arrives with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, third from left, for a visit to the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis arrives with the President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam, third from left, for a visit to the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam with Minister of Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong, the Ambassador of Singapore to the Holy See Ang Janet Guat Har and other authorities wait for Pope Francis at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

The President of the Singapore Republic Tharman Shanmugaratnam with Minister of Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong, the Ambassador of Singapore to the Holy See Ang Janet Guat Har and other authorities wait for Pope Francis at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis addresses Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, and the audience during a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis addresses Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, and the audience during a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis addresses Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, and the audience during a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis addresses Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, right, and the audience during a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Chief Executive Officer of the Singapore's National Parks Board Hwang Yu-Ning presents Pope Francis with a 'Dendrobium His Holiness Pope Francis', a specially bred orchid variety named after him at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Chief Executive Officer of the Singapore's National Parks Board Hwang Yu-Ning presents Pope Francis with a 'Dendrobium His Holiness Pope Francis', a specially bred orchid variety named after him at the Parliament House in Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis and Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, third from left, leave at the end of a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis and Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, third from left, leave at the end of a meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps in the theatre of the Cultural Centre of the National University of Singapore, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Pope Francis flew to Singapore on Wednesday for the final leg of his trip through Asia, arriving in one of the world's richest countries from one of its poorest after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

GENEVA (AP) — Independent U.N. human rights experts said in a new report Tuesday that their findings show Venezuela's government has intensified the use of “harshest and most violent" tools of repression following the disputed July presidential election.

The official results of the July 28 vote have been widely criticized as undemocratic, opaque and aimed to maintain President Nicolás Maduro in power.

In its report, the fact-finding mission on Venezuela, commissioned by the U.N.-backed Human Rights Council, denounced rights violations including arbitrary detentions, torture, and sexual and gender-based violence by the country's security forces that “taken as a whole, constitute the crime against humanity of persecution on political grounds.”

“During the period covered by this report, and especially after the presidential election of July 28, 2024, the state reactivated and intensified the harshest and most violent mechanisms of its repressive apparatus,” said the experts in the report, which covered a one-year period through Aug. 31.

The findings echo concerns from U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Human Rights Watch, and others about Venezuela and its democracy, including repression before and after the highly anticipated vote and the subsequent flight into exile of Venezuela's opposition leader Edmundo González.

Marta Valiñas, head of the experts team, said that between July 29 and Aug. 6, Venezuelan authorities acknowledged they arrested more than 2,200 people.

"Of these, we have confirmed the arrest of at least 158 children — some with disabilities," Valiñas told reporters at a news conference Tuesday in Geneva, noting that some had been accused of serious crimes, such as terrorism.

“This phenomenon is something new and extremely worrying,” she said. "We are facing a systematic, coordinated and deliberate repression by the Venezuelan government which responds to a conscious plan to silence any form of dissent.”

Venezuela’s National Electoral Council, which is stacked with Maduro loyalists, said he won the election with 52% of the vote. But opposition supporters collected tally sheets from 80% of the nation's electronic voting machines, and said that indicated González had won the election — with twice as many votes as Maduro.

Global condemnation over the lack of transparency prompted Maduro to ask Venezuela’s Supreme Tribunal of Justice, whose members are aligned with the ruling party, to audit the results. The high court reaffirmed his victory.

The independent experts, who do not represent the United Nations, comprise a fact-finding mission created in 2019. They have been reporting on rights violations — including alleged crimes against humanity — in Maduro's Venezuela for years. This report, the fifth of its kind, decried the government's efforts to crush peaceful opposition to its rule.

The justice system — led by the Supreme Tribunal — “is clearly subordinated” to the interests of Maduro and his close allies and served as a “key instrument in its plan to repress all forms of political and social opposition,” they wrote.

In the hours after Maduro was declared the winner, thousands of people took to the streets across Venezuela. The protests were largely peaceful, but demonstrators also toppled statues of Maduro’s predecessor, the late Hugo Chávez, threw rocks at law enforcement officers and buildings, and burned police motorcycles and government propaganda.

Maduro's government responded to the demonstrations with full force, carrying out arbitrary detentions, prosecutions as well as a campaign that encourages people to report relatives, neighbors and other acquaintances who participated in the protests or cast doubt on the results.

Patricia Tappatá Valdez, a member of the expert team, said it had verified that at least 143 arrests involved members of seven opposition parties, including 66 leaders of political movements.

“Politically motivated persecution is evident," she said. "These figures represent a level of repression that we have not seen since 2019.”

The independent experts said they compiled the report through interviews with 383 people and reviews of court case files and other documents while also acknowledging limits to their information-gathering in the post-election period.

The experts said their requests for information from Venezuelan authorities were “ignored” despite appeals for cooperation from the rights council, which is made up of a rotating membership among 47 U.N. member countries.

Associated Press writers Regina Garcia Cano in Mexico City and Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations contributed to this report.

FILE - Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro addresses government loyalists gathered at the presidential palace in support of his reelection one month after the presidential vote, in Caracas, Venezuela, Aug. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos, File)

FILE - Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro addresses government loyalists gathered at the presidential palace in support of his reelection one month after the presidential vote, in Caracas, Venezuela, Aug. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos, File)

FILE - Protesters clash with police during demonstrations against the official election results declaring President Nicolas Maduro's reelection, the day after the vote in Caracas, Venezuela, July 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix, File)

FILE - Protesters clash with police during demonstrations against the official election results declaring President Nicolas Maduro's reelection, the day after the vote in Caracas, Venezuela, July 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix, File)

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