Pope Leo XIV begins historic visit to Algeria amid criticism from US President
via SeneNews3 min read
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Algeria on Monday morning for a historic visit, the first by a Pope to the country, marking the start of an eleven-day tour of Africa. The visit comes amidst strong criticism from the US President, though the Pope stated upon arrival that he had no intention of debating Donald Trump and was not afraid of his administration. The US President had previously launched a diatribe against the pontiff, stating he was not a "big fan" after Leo XIV spoke out against the conflict in the Middle East. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, an far-right leader often aligned with Mr. Trump, issued a statement wishing the Pope a fruitful journey to the four African countries. In Algiers, the Pope was welcomed with honors and by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, with cannon fire marking his arrival. Leo XIV described his trip to Algeria as "very special," noting it is the birthplace of Saint Augustine, whose thought influences his pontificate. He emphasized that the 4th-century Christian thinker is a "very important bridge in interreligious dialogue" and that this journey offers a valuable opportunity to promote peace and reconciliation with respect for all peoples. Peaceful coexistence will be central to the Pope's message in Algeria, where Sunni Islam is the state religion. As the first stop of his two-day visit, Leo XIV will pay tribute to the victims of the war of independence against France at the Martyrs' Monument. He will then be received by President Tebboune an
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