Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Argentina for the second leg of his 12-day South American tour, where he met President Javier Milei and called for economic policies that place human dignity and the welfare of citizens at the centre of national development.
The Pope arrived in Buenos Aires on Sunday, November 8, 2026, marking the first papal visit to Argentina in nearly four decades.
He was welcomed by Milei at Jorge Newbery International Airport before proceeding to the presidential palace for an official meeting.
The visit is particularly significant because Argentina is the birthplace of Pope Francis, who served as head of the Catholic Church for 12 years but never returned to the country as Pope before his death in 2025.
Pope Urges Leaders to Put People Before the Economy
Watch: Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Argentina and meeting with President Javier Milei.
During an address to government officials, diplomats and civil society representatives at Palacio Libertad in Buenos Aires, Leo emphasised the importance of placing human dignity, social harmony and the common good above purely economic considerations.
He urged political leaders to ensure that economic development benefits communities and protects vulnerable citizens.
The Pope also stressed that public authority should be exercised as a form of service, with government decisions directed towards the welfare of the entire population.
His remarks came amid continuing debates over Milei’s economic policies, particularly austerity measures and their implications for public spending, social protection and living standards.
According to the Associated Press, Leo’s message presented a diplomatic but pointed challenge to an economic approach that places fiscal adjustment at the centre of government policy.
However, the Pope did not directly name or condemn Milei’s economic programme in his address.
Pope Pays Tribute to Francis’ Argentine Legacy
Leo also reflected on the historical significance of visiting the country where Pope Francis was born and developed his early religious ministry.
He acknowledged the influence of his predecessor, noting that the universal Church had listened to an Argentine Pope for 12 years.
Francis, whose birth name was Jorge Mario Bergoglio, served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires before becoming Pope in March 2013.
His papacy was widely associated with attention to poverty, social inequality, migration and the dignity of disadvantaged communities.
Leo said his visit allowed him to retrace some of the places and history associated with Francis’ life.
The current Pope also praised Argentina’s cultural diversity and the contributions of generations of citizens who helped shape the country.
Milei Welcomes Pope Amid Economic Policy Differences
President Javier Milei welcomed the Pope and participated in the official reception and subsequent meeting at the presidential palace.
The visit comes against the background of differences between the Catholic Church and Milei’s administration over economic austerity and the social consequences of government spending reductions.
Milei has defended his economic reforms as necessary to stabilise Argentina’s economy and address longstanding fiscal challenges.
Meanwhile, Church leaders have repeatedly raised concerns about poverty, inequality and the impact of economic difficulties on vulnerable households.
Leo’s remarks highlighted the need to balance economic development with social responsibility, particularly in a country experiencing significant economic adjustments.
Pope Calls for Justice, Dialogue and National Unity
Beyond economic concerns, the Pope urged Argentine leaders to strengthen democratic institutions, encourage dialogue and address corruption.
He warned that organised crime, human trafficking, drug trafficking and corruption undermine social cohesion and divert resources needed for public development.
He also called for greater cooperation among South American countries in confronting security challenges and protecting their shared natural resources.
The Pope emphasised that democracy should be strengthened through respect for institutions, freedom of expression and the willingness of political leaders to engage with opposing views.
He also praised mothers and families for passing faith and values from one generation to another.
What Comes Next in the Pope’s South American Tour?
Argentina is the second destination on Leo’s 12-day apostolic journey, which began in Uruguay on November 6 and is scheduled to conclude in Peru on November 17.
During his stay in Argentina, the Pope is expected to visit Buenos Aires, Córdoba and Luján.
His programme includes religious services, meetings with Church leaders, visits involving workers and vulnerable communities, and engagements with the wider public.
The visit is expected to attract significant attention from Catholics and political observers, particularly because of the relationship between the Catholic Church and Argentina’s ongoing economic debate.
After completing his engagements in Argentina, Leo will continue to Peru for the final stage of his South American journey.
His message to Argentine leaders has placed economic responsibility, human dignity and social welfare at the centre of discussions surrounding the visit.
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