(Photo courtesy of Anadolu)
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Pope Leo XIV called for national unity, stronger democratic institutions and greater accountability in government during his first official address in Argentina on Sunday, November 8.
Speaking before President Javier Milei, Cabinet officials, lawmakers, provincial governors, Supreme Court justices and diplomats at the Palacio Libertad in Buenos Aires, the pontiff urged political leaders to promote dialogue and reconciliation amid the country’s economic and social challenges.
Delivering his remarks in Spanish, Leo emphasized that economic policies should prioritize human dignity and public welfare.
“The economy should be at the service of the person, and not the person at the service of the economy,” he said.
The pope also warned that organized crime, human trafficking, illegal arms and drug smuggling, and corruption threaten social stability and weaken public institutions.
“Organized crime, human trafficking networks, the smuggling of arms and drugs as well as corruption damage social coexistence, fuel violence, and divert resources necessary for the common good,” he said.
He stressed that addressing these problems requires coordinated government action and institutions capable of maintaining public confidence.
“This strength also depends on the personal integrity of those entrusted with the responsibility to govern, for corruption erodes citizens’ trust in their institutions,” Leo added.
Although he did not directly criticize the Milei administration, his remarks came amid political divisions and public debate over austerity measures affecting pensions, disability assistance, education, culture and scientific research.
The pontiff emphasized the importance of respecting political differences and seeking common ground, saying democratic institutions are strengthened through responsible public discourse and cooperation.
“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, and in the ability to recognize those who think differently as fellow countrymen with whom we share a common destiny,” he said.
His remarks drew applause from the audience, particularly his appeal for Argentinians to recognize those holding opposing political views as fellow citizens.
Leo also acknowledged Argentina’s cultural heritage, referring to its literature, music and national identity.
He cited literary figures associated with Martín Fierro and Jorge Luis Borges, along with tango icon Carlos Gardel, in highlighting the country’s cultural contributions.
The address followed a series of official engagements during the pope’s first day in Argentina after arriving from Uruguay.
Earlier, he visited the Casa Rosada presidential palace, held a private meeting with Milei and received the keys to the City of Buenos Aires.
The pontiff also reflected on the significance of visiting 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.
His reference to Francis drew another round of applause.
“Today, as I succeed him in the Petrine ministry, I am, in a sense, retracing his steps in reverse, coming to the homeland where Pope Francis began a story that would eventually become intertwined with that of the entire Church,” he added.
Leo’s visit marks a significant moment for Argentina, where Pope Francis began his religious ministry before becoming the first Latin American pontiff.
The pope’s message centered on strengthening democratic institutions, promoting social solidarity and encouraging political leaders to place public welfare above partisan differences.
