Europe 1 with AFP 11:11am, April 01, 2023

Pope Francis was released from hospital on Saturday, hospitalized in Rome for respiratory problems. The pontiff met the people as he left, greeting and embracing several faithful. The 86-year-old pope did not hesitate to joke in front of the press.

Pope Francis, 86, was discharged Saturday from the Roman hospital where he had been admitted Wednesday due to respiratory problems, journalists found.

"I'm still alive," the Argentine pontiff joked to the many faithful and journalists massed near Rome's Gemelli Hospital. Francis got off his little white Fiat to greet them and exchange a few words before leaving for the Vatican.