Pope Leo XIV Arrives in Argentina for Historic Four-Day Visit
Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Argentina for a historic four-day visit, marking the first papal trip to the country in nearly 40 years. Welcomed by President Javier Milei, the pontiff addressed national officials on social cohesion and honored the legacy of Pope Francis.
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Argentina on Sunday for a historic four-day visit, marking the first papal trip to the country in nearly four decades. The visit takes place in the homeland of the late Pope Francis, who never returned to Argentina during his pontificate, and unfolds amid domestic political tensions and economic challenges.
The pontiff landed in Buenos Aires following a visit to Uruguay and was greeted at the airport by President Javier Milei in a ceremony featuring an honor guard and national anthems. He subsequently laid a wreath at the monument of General Jose de San Martin, one of Argentina's independence heroes, and held official talks with Milei at the presidential palace.
Call for Social Cohesion and Anti-Corruption
In an address delivered to government officials, civil society representatives, and the diplomatic corps, the Pope emphasized the importance of upholding human dignity, fostering dialogue, and maintaining public responsibility. He warned against the corrosive effects of corruption, organized crime, human trafficking, and the smuggling of drugs and weapons, stating that these illicit activities undermine social cohesion and public trust in state institutions.
Leo XIV also reflected on the legacy of his predecessor, Francis, a native of Buenos Aires. He noted that visiting the land where his predecessor grew up carries profound personal significance and allows him to connect with the roots of the man who previously led the Catholic Church.
Political Context and Upcoming Itinerary
The visit holds special resonance in Argentina, the birthplace of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who became Pope Francis in 2013. Despite repeated invitations, Francis never visited his homeland during his papacy, and his relationship with President Milei had experienced initial friction before a subsequent reconciliation. For Milei, the papal visit provides an opportunity to showcase improved diplomatic relations with the Vatican.
The Pope's itinerary includes a visit to a care institution in Claypole, a large public mass in Buenos Aires, and meetings with labor representatives and religious community leaders. On Tuesday, he is scheduled to travel to Cordoba for a youth prayer rally, followed by visits to a correctional facility and the Lujan pilgrimage site on Wednesday before departing for Peru, the final leg of his South American tour.
