· · 2 sources

Pope Leo XIV arrives in France for first visit in 18 years

Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Paris to begin a four-day state visit that marks the first papal trip to France in 18 years.

Pope Leo visits France for first papal visit in 18 years – Europe live
File photo Pope Leo visits France for first papal visit in 18 years – Europe live Photo: The Guardian

Security measures and schedule

Approximately 14,000 police officers, gendarmes, military personnel, and firefighters are on duty for the visit. More than 20 metro and commuter train stations have been temporarily closed in the capital. The Pope will meet President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace before delivering a speech at UNESCO headquarters.

Key topics for the trip

The pontiff aims to repair the Catholic Church's standing after sexual abuse scandals in the country. He is also expected to deliver a landmark speech on artificial intelligence development. The visit includes stops at the restored Notre Dame Cathedral and the shrine in Lourdes.

Motto for the journey

The official motto for the trip is that the world may have life. Vatican News describes this phrase as a call to hope and communion. The Pope hopes these themes will encourage people to overcome divisions and share peace.

All 2 outlets report consistently

No differences in figures, names or dates across these reports.

  • The Guardian
  • France 24

Reported by

2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.