Giorgia Meloni has said the Pope was “alert” and joking during a visit to see him in hospital where he is battling pneumonia.

Italy’s prime minister was the first confirmed outside visitor to call on Pope Francis since he was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital with bronchitis last Friday.

On Tuesday, the Holy See revealed the 88-year-old pontiff had developed pneumonia in both of his lungs.

Ms Meloni said: “I was very happy to find him alert and responsive. We joked as always. He hasn’t lost his proverbial sense of humour.”

The Italian premier, who came to power in 2022 with a message touting her Christian credentials, has previously praised Pope Benedict XVI, who was a reference point for European conservatives like herself.

She also has worked with Pope Francis on a campaign to reverse Italy’s low birthrate, although they have differing views on migrants.