Emmanuel Macron and Pope Leo XIV set out clashing world views at first meeting in France
Speaking at the Elysée, the pontiff set the tone for his first visit to France; dialogue with the Republic, warnings over AI and a call for peace, while acknowledging ongoing disagreements.
French President Emmanuel Macron and Pope Leo XIV engaged in a meeting that highlighted their divergent worldviews. Macron aimed to revisit the dialogue between the state and religions, while addressing the challenges faced by modern societies. The French leader emphasized secularism, not as a means of distancing society from religion, but as a framework that guarantees freedom of conscience.
The meeting also focused on artificial intelligence, which both leaders considered a major global issue. Macron advocated for engaged France, promoting peace, multilateralism, and respect for international law, particularly in the face of ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Pope Leo XIV, on the other hand, placed human dignity at the center of his message, warning of the risks associated with artificial intelligence and calling for responsible technological progress.
The pontiff also held France responsible for maintaining peace and multilateralism in a world marked by crises. During the meeting, both leaders discussed bioethical issues, with Pope Leo XIV opposing controversial bills and reaffirming his commitment to protecting all human life. Following the meeting, Pope Leo XIV visited various sites in France, delivering speeches and participating in interreligious dialogues, before concluding his trip with a Mass in Saint-Étienne Cathedral.
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