Milei hits back at Pope Leo's call for dialogue

President Javier Milei expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with various sectors of Argentina, but criticized the political debate in the country for lacking intellectual honesty. He argued that the opposition had supported 40 government bills the previous year to undermine macroeconomic stability, emphasizing his commitment to fiscal balance.

Upon receiving Pope Leo's plea for dialogue and democratic coexistence, Milei responded, stating that debates should be intellectually honest and characterized by conceptual rigor. He accused part of the political system and the press of malicious characterization and a lack of conceptual rigour, with many people supporting policies out of convenience, increasing spending despite objections.

Milei acknowledged the Pope's historic visit as overwhelming and discussed moral foundations of politics during a private meeting with the pontiff. Both leaders emphasized the importance of personal integrity and the need to avoid corruption in public office. The Pope's visit aimed to mend deep divisions in Argentina, where seven million faithful were expected to attend various events, including a home for disabled people and a prison, and three open-air masses.