Pope Leo XIV has urged Argentine President Javier Milei and political leaders to safeguard democracy, respect democratic institutions and ensure that economic growth benefits all citizens during his first official visit to Argentina.
The Pope made the appeal on Sunday, November 8, 2026, during an address to government officials, diplomats and civil society representatives at the Palacio Libertad in Buenos Aires.
He stressed that democracy was part of Argentina’s national heritage and required continuous protection through responsible leadership, respect for the law and dialogue among people with differing political views.
According to the Pope, democratic governance should be strengthened through a willingness to listen, careful use of public communication and the pursuit of agreements in the interest of the country.
He also reminded political leaders that the authority entrusted to them should be exercised in service to the people rather than for personal or political interests.
“Authority is most authentic when it is exercised as service, when it looks beyond the immediate, and when it uses its power to promote the welfare of all,” Leo said.
The Pope further called for economic policies that create employment opportunities, encourage private investment and ensure that disadvantaged citizens benefit from national development.
He specifically highlighted the challenges facing unemployed people, struggling families, elderly citizens and workers whose earnings were insufficient to meet their household needs.
Leo’s remarks came amid debates surrounding Milei’s economic reform programme, which has included reductions in public spending and social welfare expenditure. His administration has also faced criticism over its approach to political opposition and the media.
Milei, a close political ally of United States President Donald Trump, has maintained an economic agenda centred on austerity measures and reducing the role of government in the economy.
The Argentine leader received the Pope shortly after his arrival in Buenos Aires on Sunday. Their meeting marked a significant moment in the country’s relationship with the Catholic Church, particularly following the papacy of Pope Francis, the first Argentine-born pontiff, who did not visit his home country during his 12-year leadership of the Church.
Pope Leo’s visit is the first papal trip to Argentina since 1987.
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