Pope Leo XIV has urged Argentina’s leaders to strengthen democracy, fight corruption and put people before economic interests in his first official address in the country.
Speaking in Buenos Aires on Sunday to President Javier Milei, government ministers, lawmakers and senior officials, the pontiff called for national unity and greater social responsibility.
“The economy should be at the service of the person, and not the person at the service of the economy,” he said.
His remarks came amid mounting economic and social pressures in Argentina, following sweeping austerity measures introduced by Milei's government.
The pontiff warned that organised crime, human trafficking, arms and drug smuggling, and corruption were undermining society and eroding public trust.
He stressed that addressing these threats demanded strong democratic institutions and integrity from those in power.
“Corruption erodes citizens’ trust in their institutions,” he said.
While stopping short of directly criticising Milei's government, Leo appeared to allude to deepening political divisions and the effects of spending cuts on pensioners, people with disabilities, education, culture and scientific research.
The Pope drew particularly strong applause when he urged people to respect those with opposing political views.
“Democracy is also strengthened through our daily conduct in public life: in a willingness to listen, in the careful use of language, in the patient pursuit of consensus,” he said.
He added that political opponents should be treated as fellow citizens with a shared future.
Leo also praised Argentina's cultural heritage, including its literature, tango and music, while highlighting its natural resources and human potential.
Leo's visit held particular significance as he travelled to the homeland of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who led the Catholic Church for 12 years.
“For twelve years, the universal Church listened to the voice of an Argentine pontiff who carried with him - in his memory and in his heart - the places, the people and the faith he received here,” Leo said.
He portrayed the visit as a journey back to the roots of Francis, whose path to leading the Catholic Church began in Argentina.
The address came after Leo arrived from Uruguay and met Milei at the presidential palace. The Pope also received the keys to Buenos Aires during a ceremony.
Pope Leo XIV has urged Argentina’s leaders to strengthen democracy, fight corruption and put people before economic interests in his first of...
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