Pope Leo XIV calls for European unity and diplomacy during France visit

Pope Leo XIV has urged European nations to defend dialogue, honesty and cooperation, warning that relations between countries are becoming increasingly hostile.

Speaking in Metz, eastern France, on Monday, the Pope said Europe could play an important role in countering what he described as a decline in trust and respect in international affairs.

The address came on the final day of his four-day visit to France, his first official papal trip to the country.

French President Emmanuel Macron attended the event.

Call for negotiations over war

Pope Leo also appealed for renewed diplomatic efforts to end conflicts in Europe, in remarks widely understood as referring to Russia's war against Ukraine.

He said governments should be prepared to negotiate patiently and accept compromise when necessary to achieve peace.

The Pope described the return of war to Europe as a tragedy that continued to cost civilian lives.

His comments form part of a broader message of peace and cooperation that has featured prominently during his visit.

Europe and migration

The pontiff also addressed migration, saying Europe was entering a new period shaped by the arrival of people fleeing war and persecution.

He said encounters between different cultures should encourage Europeans to reflect on their own heritage while remaining open to others.

His comments come as immigration remains a major political issue across Europe, including in France ahead of the country's presidential election next year.

Large crowds greet Pope

The visit has drawn large numbers of Catholics across France.

According to Vatican figures, more than 1.3 million people attended events involving the Pope in Paris and Lourdes between Friday and Sunday.

One of the largest gatherings took place in Paris, where hundreds of thousands attended an outdoor Mass after Pope Leo travelled through the city in his popemobile.

In Metz, hotels were reported to be full and restaurants saw increased bookings ahead of his arrival.

Later on Monday, the Pope was due to travel through the city before celebrating Mass at Saint-Etienne Cathedral, with President Macron and his wife Brigitte expected to attend.

Peace, abuse and artificial intelligence

During his visit, Pope Leo has used several speeches to highlight priorities of his papacy, including peace, coexistence and the ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence.

He has warned against technological progress coming at the expense of human relationships and dignity.

During a stop in Lourdes on Sunday, the Pope also met survivors of clerical sexual abuse and urged French bishops to continue confronting abuse within the Church.

The trip has demonstrated the enthusiasm Pope Leo has generated among many French Catholics while giving him a prominent platform to promote European cooperation at a time of war and political division.