Key facts
- Pope Leo XIV warned human traffickers to repent or face divine justice.
- Pope Leo XIV described the Atlantic route to the Canary Islands as "death routes."
- Pope Leo XIV's papal plane experienced a technical issue.
- The King of Spain offered Pope Leo XIV a jet.
- Pope Leo XIV called for integration based on rights and duties.
- Pope Leo XIV urged migrants to learn the language, obey laws, and participate in community life.
- Pope Leo XIV highlighted difficulties faced by migrants upon arrival.
- Pope Francis praised Spain's commitment to peace and solidarity.
- Pope Francis noted Spain's opposition to war and support for migrants.
Pope Leo XIV has issued a strong warning to human traffickers, urging them to repent or face divine retribution. He characterized the dangerous Atlantic crossing to the Canary Islands as "death routes." Pope Leo XIV's journey back to Rome encountered a delay due to a technical problem with his papal aircraft, necessitating his use of a jet offered by the King of Spain. During his time in Tenerife, Spain, Pope Leo XIV also addressed the complexities of migrant integration. He advocated for a model of integration built on mutual rights and responsibilities, encouraging migrants to learn the local language, adhere to laws, and engage in community activities. Simultaneously, he acknowledged the significant challenges migrants often encounter upon arrival in new countries.
In parallel, Pope Francis commended Spain for its dedication to peace and solidarity. He specifically highlighted Spain's opposition to war and its supportive policies towards migrants during his seven-day tour. The two papal figures, while addressing different aspects of migration and societal integration, both acknowledged Spain's role and policies in these areas.