Global Economic Times

Pope Leo XIV's Argentina Visit Unofficially Confirmed… Announcing a Hometown Visit After 12 Years of Silence Following Meeting with President Milei: Hwang Sujin Reporter / Updated : 2025-06-11 18:33:20

Vatican meeting signals reconciliation and a new alignment between the Holy See and the Milei administration

On Saturday, June 7, 2025, Pope Leo XIV received Argentine President Javier Milei at the Vatican. While ostensibly a courtesy meeting, this encounter held significant meaning, infusing reconciliation, a new alignment, and a transformative spirit into the complex dynamics between the Holy See and the Milei government. In particular, the unofficial confirmation of Pope Leo XIV's visit to Argentina, breaking the 12-year silence during which Pope Francis, despite numerous invitations, did not visit his homeland, marks an impending historical turning point.

President Milei's Vatican Visit and the Search for a New Relationship

President Milei, known for his libertarian views and often confrontational rhetoric, arrived at the Apostolic Palace with a small but powerful delegation, including his sister and Chief of Staff Karina Milei, Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein, and Vatican Ambassador Luis Beltramino. During the 45-minute private audience, Pope Leo XIV and President Milei conversed face-to-face, with Vatican observers noting that the dialogue extended far beyond mere pleasantries. The official statement from the Holy See Press Office described the meeting as "heartfelt," emphasizing the reaffirmation of a strong bilateral relationship, but sources familiar with the agenda hinted at deeper currents at play.

Key Topics of Discussion: Argentina's Socio-Economic Challenges and the Vatican's Role

Reports suggest that the conversation covered Argentina's current socio-economic situation, ongoing efforts to combat poverty, and the fragility of social cohesion during a period of aggressive economic reforms. Despite their ideological distance, the Vatican and the Casa Rosada (Argentine Presidential Palace) seemed to recognize a shared interest in promoting peace and stability both domestically in Argentina and on the international stage. Since taking office, President Milei has pursued radical austerity policies to reduce national debt and curb inflation. While these policies aim for long-term stability, they have, in the short term, led to rising unemployment and poverty rates, raising concerns about deepening social polarization. Given the Holy See's traditional emphasis on protecting the vulnerable and realizing social justice, Pope Leo XIV's deep concern for Argentina's situation is understandable.

Strengthening Diplomatic Engagement and Exploring International Roles

Subsequent meetings with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and Under-Secretary for Relations with States Monsignor Mirosław Wachowski further deepened the discussions from a diplomatic perspective. The conversations remained constructive, focusing on regional crises and the urgency of global peace-building initiatives. This suggests that Argentina under Milei, albeit in its own way, is seeking a more active international role. As a major economy in the South American region, Argentina's interest in regional stability and its role in international relations is growing.

Pope Francis's 12-Year 'Neglect' of His Homeland, and Pope Leo XIV's Announced Visit

One of the most significant, albeit unofficially confirmed, elements to emerge from this meeting was the discussion of a long-awaited papal visit to Argentina. Pope Francis was notably absent from his homeland for 12 years during his pontificate, despite repeated invitations. Many interpreted this silence as a form of protest against the local political scene or a perceived emotional distance, often leading to speculation and even discontent among Argentines. Considering that Pope Francis had often expressed critical views on Argentina's political and economic situation, his non-visit was sometimes seen as a political message beyond a mere personal choice.

After his election as Pope in 2013, Pope Francis had expressed complex feelings about visiting his native Argentina, stating he "did not want to disappoint Argentines." Some speculated that he might have been concerned about being perceived as interfering in Argentine politics or wary of being exploited by specific political factions. Others suggest that his deep affection for his homeland was intertwined with complex emotions regarding Argentina's deep-seated political divisions and economic difficulties.

Now, with the unofficial confirmation that a Pope intends to visit Argentina, a historical circle may be closing. Pope Leo XIV's visit to Argentina would break the "silence" of the Pope Francis era and hold significant symbolic meaning, ushering in a new phase in the relationship between the Vatican and Argentina. This would be more than just a religious visit; it would convey a message of unity and hope to Argentine society as a whole and demonstrate the Holy See's deep concern for Argentina's pressing challenges.

Exchange of Gifts and Ideological Messages

The meeting also offered a glimpse into their personal rapport. In the customary exchange of gifts, President Milei presented Pope Leo XIV with two books by Spanish economist Jesús Huerta de Soto. De Soto's ultra-liberal theories closely align with Milei's vision of a minimal state and deregulated markets. The Pope's reaction to the gifts was not disclosed, but this ideologically charged gesture did not seem to disrupt the overall respectful atmosphere.

The Future of Argentina-Vatican Relations: A New Chapter of Reconciliation and Cooperation

This meeting between President Milei and Pope Leo XIV is highly significant as it opens a new chapter in Argentina-Vatican relations. In the past, Pope Francis and President Milei had publicly clashed, with Milei, during his presidential campaign, criticizing Pope Francis as an "evil leftist instigated by a political ideological group." Given this background, the current meeting demonstrates both sides' willingness to bridge their distance and explore possibilities for cooperation.

The Holy See has a long history of maintaining diplomatic relations with governments of diverse political systems and ideological spectrums worldwide. Instead of being bound by specific ideologies, it pursues universal human values and social justice, with a particular focus on poverty and social inequality. From this perspective, the Vatican's concern about the impact of the Milei government's radical economic reforms on Argentine society is natural, and it remains to be seen what message the Holy See will convey in its future relationship with Argentina.

If Pope Leo XIV's visit to Argentina materializes, it will carry significance beyond a mere religious event. It could become a powerful symbol of unity and healing for Argentine society, and a strong affirmation of the Holy See's continued interest and support. Simultaneously, it could provide the Milei government with an opportunity to improve international relations and help bridge social conflicts that may arise during radical reforms.

Moving forward, diplomatic relations between Argentina and the Vatican are expected to deepen, which could also impact political and social stability in the South American region. Pope Leo XIV's visit to Argentina is anticipated to be an important case study demonstrating the role of religious leaders in complex modern societies and the new possibilities of international diplomacy.