The president Javier Milei stated this Tuesday that it is “highly probable” that Pope Leo XIV will visit Argentina in November, as long as no unforeseen events occur.
The president attributed the progress in this direction to the diplomatic work led by Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno and highlighted the rapprochement process that the national government has been developing.
“The management of Foreign Minister Quirno has allowed us to close positions, and it is very likely that we will have the pleasure of hosting him here in Argentina in November,” Milei assured in statements to Radio Mitre, referring to the possible arrival of the Supreme Pontiff.
Javier Milei and Pope Leo XIV.
The statements were made after the Tedeum on May 25, where the head of state adopted a conciliatory tone in response to the homily of the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Jorge García Cuerva.
The President rejected the notion that the archbishop acts as a political adversary and considered that his words are part of a legitimate exchange. “An absolutely valid opinion,” defined Milei, who also emphasized the tone of the message: “Moreover, he does so in a polite manner. I have nothing to complain about. I think it opens a dialogue and a debate. I believe that is very valuable.”
In line with this stance, the president acknowledged positive aspects of the Church's role in the current context. “There are positions that I find interesting, positive, and constructive when a religious authority tries to mediate in this situation,” he noted.
Javier Milei and Pope Leo XIV.
The Background
The diplomatic process to finalize the visit dates back to February when Quirno traveled to Rome and personally delivered an invitation letter signed by Milei.
“I delivered an invitation letter from the President to Pope Leo XIV to visit our country and reaffirmed the willingness to work together for peace, understanding between nations, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts,” the foreign minister stated after that meeting.
Since then, the government estimated the chances of making the trip before the end of the year at “70% or more.” In recent days, new signals have reinforced that expectation.
After meeting with the President at the Quinta de Olivos, Quirno posted on X that he brought “the good news that will make all the Argentine people happy” and left the expectation open with a phrase that generated a response: “We just need to define the date, what a lovely Spring.”
Milei himself echoed that message with a brief “It’s coming...,” accompanied by two lion emojis, thus fueling speculation about a visit that, if realized, would mark a historic event both politically and religiously.
