Pope Leo XIV stated that Argentina's economy must serve the entire population including impoverished citizens, delivering a diplomatic yet direct critique of President Javier Milei's fiscal restraint.
The pontiff made the remarks upon landing in Buenos Aires for the second leg of a 12-day Latin American journey, following a lung cancer operation three weeks prior.
In reply, right-wing President Milei stated that his administration aimed to prevent harming future generations of Argentinians for the sake of current benefits.
This portion of the papal tour was anticipated to carry significant political sensitivity, given that the administration's public spending reductions have faced criticism from the Catholic Church for severely impacting the most vulnerable.
"The economy must be at the service of the people, rather than people being at the service of the economy," Pope Leo stated.
He emphasized the difficulties faced by individuals who struggle to support their families despite diligent labor, and called for specific attention toward the sick, dependent, and disabled, pointing indirectly to contentious reductions in disability support.
Addressing what seemed to be a criticism of Milei's aggressive rhetoric and demeanor, the Pope noted that fortifying democracy demands readiness to listen and prudent vocabulary.
Milei had previously directed harsh criticism at Leo's predecessor Pope Francis, labeling him as evil and a communist for advocating social justice to aid the poor.
Nevertheless, on Sunday Milei adopted a conciliatory approach, describing Francis as an exceptional figure and the most significant Argentine in history.
He had also expressed eagerness for the current Pope's arrival, publishing a message on X stating that Argentina awaited the visit with great joy.
Pope Leo called on Argentina to protect its democratic system, stating that authorities must act prudently, recognize their power limitations, and orient decisions toward community welfare.
During his welcoming speech, Milei defended his libertarian agenda, asserting that rights to life, liberty, and property form the foundation of the national constitution and Western democracies.
The Argentine leader, planning to run for re-election next year, strongly backs US President Donald Trump, who has previously criticized Pope Leo for opposing the Iran war.
The visit to Argentina is viewed as a tribute to Francis, who never visited his home country while serving as pope.
The Vatican reported that no special health precautions are necessary for the Pope, characterizing him as a 71-year-old post-surgical patient rather than someone with a chronic illness.
The tumor removal surgery performed last month was successful, and medical staff confirmed the cancer has not metastasized.