Macron invites EU leaders to Pope Leo speech
The pontiff is expected to talk about Europe, peace and unity during an address in Metz.
President Emmanuel Macron has extended an invitation to European leaders to attend Pope Leo XIV's address during his upcoming visit to France. The pontiff will deliver a speech titled "The roots of Europe, for peace and unity" in Metz, the hometown of former French Prime Minister Robert Schuman, on September 28. The event aims to honor Schuman, the father of Europe, a Catholic, and a key figure in the establishment of the European Union.
Metz, chosen as the location for the speech, is somewhat unexpected for a papal visit, according to Archbishop Philippe Ballot of Metz, who noted that the Pope is using his final day in France to engage with Europe and the rest of the world. During his four-day official visit from September 25 to 28, the Pope is scheduled to meet Macron at the Elysée Palace, pay visits to Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Unesco headquarters, where he is expected to discuss artificial intelligence.
Pope Leo XIV's trip marks the first official papal visit to France since Benedict XVI's visit in 2008.
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