In an interview with the Spanish daily ABC, Pope Francis discussed the prospect that, like his predecessor Benedict XVI, he may step down from office in the future. In the interview, he revealed for the first time that he had previously signed a paper stating that, in the event of sickness or a permanent disability, he would resign: "My letter of resignation is already signed. Tarcisio Bertone was the Secretary of State. I gave him my signature and informed him that I was resigning in case I was unable to work due to illness or other circumstances. They now possess it. During his time as secretary of state, Cardinal Bertone received them from me; however, I have no idea who he handed them to." In the interview, Pope Francis emphasizes that previous popes have likewise signed a letter announcing their resignation in the event of sickness (he cites Paul VI and Pius XII). He then comments about the fact that it is the first time that he openly reveals that he has written his resignation and, jokingly, adds that now someone will go and ask Bertone: "Give me that piece of paper!".
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