Pope Leo XIV departs for France on first papal state visit in 18 years
Pope Leo XIV flew to France on Friday for the Vatican's first state visit to the country in nearly two decades, with artificial intelligence among the topics on his agenda.
Pope Leo XIV departed for France on Friday, marking the Vatican's first state visit to the European nation in 18 years. The 71-year-old pontiff's trip is expected to touch on a range of subjects, including artificial intelligence and engagement with young believers.
French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, were set to greet the pope on the tarmac upon his arrival, underscoring the diplomatic significance of the visit for both the Vatican and the French government.
The visit represents a notable moment in relations between the Holy See and France, given the lengthy gap since the last state visit of this kind. Analysts and Vatican watchers have noted that the choice of themes for the trip, including the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, reflects the pope's broader priorities since taking office.
Specific details of the pope's itinerary beyond his arrival, including any planned addresses, meetings with French officials, or public appearances, were not included in the available source material.
The trip is being closely followed by outlets covering the Vatican and French politics, with live coverage tracking developments as the visit unfolds.
Sources
- Live: Pope heads to France on first state visit in 18 years — France 24 — English
EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.
Related articles
Saudi Arabia intercepts Houthi missiles as France pledges to protect oil port
Saudi forces intercepted ballistic missiles after warnings covering several regions including Mecca, as France said it would send military assets to help protect the Yanbu oil terminal.
Hundreds of thousands expected in Paris for Pope's visit
The high point of the visit will be a large open-air Mass expected to draw more than half a million people.
Le Pen advises against France entering a conflict with Russia
The National Rally's parliamentary faction leader said she does not want France to go to war with any nuclear power.
Turkiye vs France: Nations League preview as Zidane takes charge
Zinedine Zidane brings his 'aura' to his first match in charge of France, against Turkiye in the Nations League.
Nepal's floods were a 'warning to the world,' PM tells United Nations
Nepal's prime minister told the UN that last month's catastrophic floods signal growing climate risk across the Himalayas and called for greater international support.
Top Hungarian diplomat says she is ready for dialogue with Russia on bilateral relations
Anita Orban told an Index news portal that diplomatic relations between Hungary and Russia continue 'as normal' despite the lack of direct contact with her counterpart.
Comments
Loading comments…