Pope Leo XIV arrived in Argentina on Sunday, urging to protect democracy and ensure economic growth benefits the poor.

The pope's remarks were widely watched for criticism of President Javier Milei's harsh austerity programs and cuts affecting social services. 

While Leo did not address the government's policies directly, he said "the economy must be at the service of the people, rather than people being at the service of the economy." 

Talking to Milei and other government officials, he pointed to the plight of those who, "despite hard work, nonetheless struggle to meet their household's needs."

With regard to democracy, he said it was "part of Argentina's heritage that needs to be safeguarded."

The visit to Buenos Aires marks the second leg of the pope's South America tour and is the first papal visit to Argentina in nearly 40 years. 

The 71-year old pontiff, who underwent surgery for lung cancer less than a month ago, arrived from Uruguay and is scheduled to visit several cities in the Catholic-majority country before continuing to Peru on Wednesday. 

Milei's rocky relationship with the Catholic Church

Milei's policies have in the past drawn strong criticism from Argentina's Catholic Church, particularly cuts affecting social services, pensions, disability assistance and public universities. 

The Argentine leader, a close ally of US President Donald Trump, has defended his aggressive spending cuts as necessary to stabilize the country's ailing economy and curb inflation. 

Annual inflation has fallen from more than 200% to approximately 33% under his administration, but households continue to face financial pressure, and there's been anger over public-sector layoffs and business closures.

In the past, he aggressively dismissed criticism from the Catholic Church, going as far as calling Leo's predecessor, Pope Francis, an "imbecile." He had later, though, softened his tone and met with Francis in Rome. 

On Sunday, Milei struck a significantly more conciliatory note, praising Francis as an "exceptional figure" and the "most important Argentine in history."

Safeguarding democracy

Pope Leo also stressed the need to safeguard democracy in the country. 

"Those who exercise authority have a duty to act with prudence, to acknowledge the limits of the power entrusted to them, and to direct their decisions toward the good of the entire community."

The pope's words carry particular significance ahead of Argentina's presidential election in 2027, in which Milei has said he will seek another term. 

The president's aggressive rhetoric and frequent attacks on journalists and political opponents are widely seen as part of an increasing political polarization in the country. 

Leo told Milei that strengthening democracy required a "willingness to listen" and the "careful use of words."

His visit marks the first time a pope has traveled to Argentina since John Paul II's trip in 1987. It also brings renewed attention to the legacy of Francis, the country's first pope, who died in April 2025 without returning to his homeland during his 12-year papacy.