Pope Leo XIV Arrives in Argentina and Urges Economic Support for All Citizens

Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Buenos Aires on the second leg of a 12-day tour of Latin America, marking the first papal visit to Argentina in nearly four decades. Speaking in the capital, the pontiff stated that the economy must benefit all citizens including the poor, delivering remarks that addressed government policies under President Javier Milei.

During his address, Pope Leo emphasized that economic systems should be at the service of the people rather than the reverse. He highlighted the difficulties faced by individuals who struggle to meet household needs despite hard work, and called for particular concern to be shown for those affected by illness, dependency, and disability. BBC News reported that this remark functioned as a reference to government cuts to disability assistance, while also noting the pontiff's call for the careful use of words to strengthen democracy.

In response, President Milei defended his libertarian agenda, asserting that the rights to life, liberty, and property form the backbone of the Argentine constitution and Western democracies. Milei stated that his administration was working to avoid punishing future generations of Argentines to benefit current citizens. The president also welcomed the pontiff, having previously written on social media that the country awaited the visit with immense joy.

The visit occurs three weeks after Pope Leo underwent surgery for lung cancer. The tour of the continent is regarded as politically sensitive due to ongoing debate over public spending cuts implemented during Milei's presidency. The Catholic Church has previously criticized the administration's slashing of public spending for disproportionately affecting the poorest segments of the population.

Supporters and opponents of the president gathered in Buenos Aires to witness the visit, with citizens expressing hopes that the papal presence might help bridge social divisions within the country. While Milei had previously directed sharp criticism at the late Pope Francis over social justice teachings, he adopted a conciliatory tone ahead of the current visit, describing Francis as an exceptional figure in national history.