Pope Leo begins South America tour with appeal for regional unity
Pope Leo XIV, who is 71 and underwent lung cancer surgery last month, will take part in dozens of events across three countries.
Pope Leo XIV arrived at Carrasco International Airport in Montevideo, Uruguay, on Friday, marking the beginning of a 12-day tour across South America. The trip, expected to draw millions, will take him to Argentina and Peru, visiting three cities in Uruguay and giving 36 speeches. Addressing a crowd of at least 30,000 in Independence Square, the 71-year-old pontiff urged South American governments to cooperate and set an example for international cooperation.
Despite undergoing lung cancer surgery last month, Leo said he was fully recovered and no special precautions were necessary for the tour. His visit comes amid political divisions and instability across the region, with Argentina's President Javier Milei refusing to recognize Uruguay's President Yamandu Orsi, who welcomed Leo.
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