Pope Leo Urges Argentina to Safeguard Democracy
Pope Leo urged President Javier Milei to protect democracy and support disadvantaged citizens during the first papal visit to Argentina since 1987.
During a 12-day tour of Latin America, Pope Leo addressed President Javier Milei in Buenos Aires on November 8. This visit marks the first time a pontiff has visited Argentina since 1987. The U.S.-born pope urged the nation to safeguard democracy, describing it as "a part of Argentina's heritage that needs to be safeguarded."
Pope Leo emphasized that political leaders must recognize the limits of their power and ensure that economic growth benefits disadvantaged citizens. These comments are interpreted as a critique of the austerity measures and social service cuts implemented by President Milei.
The pontiff arrived in Argentina after visiting Uruguay. Despite recently undergoing lung cancer surgery, his itinerary includes visits to a prison and a care center for people with disabilities. The tour will conclude in Peru, where Pope Leo previously served as a bishop and missionary.
