Pope Leo arrives in Argentina and meets President Milei
Pope Leo XIV began Argentina’s first papal visit since 1987, pairing a meeting with Javier Milei with calls for democratic dialogue and inclusive growth.
By Daniel Okafor · Business Editor
2 min read
Pope Leo XIV began his Argentina visit on November 8 after President Javier Milei welcomed him at Jorge Newbery airport in Buenos Aires. The Pope Leo Argentina visit is the first by a pontiff to the country since 1987, giving added weight to his calls for political dialogue and economic progress that reaches disadvantaged people.
Milei and his sister, presidential secretary Karina Milei, received Leo at the airport, according to AFP and Reuters reporting published by Al Jazeera. CNN reported that Leo then held a private meeting with Milei and later appeared at the Casa Rosada, Argentina’s presidential palace.
Why is Pope Leo’s Argentina visit historic?
John Paul II was the last pope to visit Argentina, in 1987, according to AFP and Reuters. The country is also the birthplace of Pope Francis, who was born in Buenos Aires but did not return there during his 12-year papacy before his death in 2025.
Leo arrived from Uruguay, the first stop on his Latin American trip, AFP and Reuters reported. His Argentina leg runs from November 8 to 11, CNN said, before he travels to Peru, where he previously served as a bishop.
What did Pope Leo say in Buenos Aires?
In remarks to political leaders, diplomats and civil-society representatives, Leo urged Argentina to protect its democracy, CNN reported. He said democratic life depends on listening, restrained language, efforts to find agreement and treating those with opposing views as fellow citizens.
The pope also said political authority should serve the public and that the country’s wealth should benefit all, according to CNN. Associated Press reporting published by Politico said Leo called for an economy that serves people and said growth should extend to disadvantaged groups, including unemployed people and retirees.
Those themes come amid disagreement between Milei’s government and Catholic leaders over fiscal policy. AFP and Reuters reported that the church has criticized the administration’s reductions in social spending and programs for poorer people, while Milei has said the cuts are needed to bring inflation under control.
Leo’s reported schedule includes meetings with officials, diplomats and civil-society representatives, a prison visit and Masses in Buenos Aires, Lujan and Cordoba, according to AFP and Reuters. The visit also includes a public welcome ceremony at Plaza San Martin.
Milei had a contentious relationship with Francis before becoming president, AFP and Reuters reported. On Sunday, however, Associated Press reporting said Milei described Francis as an exceptional figure and said some occasions rise above political differences.
This story draws on original reporting from Al Jazeera.