Pope Leo XIV warned against economic exploitation, criticising systems that treat people and resources as commodities….reports Asian Lite News
Pope Leo XIV has called on Angola’s political leaders, civil society and diplomatic community to use their positions to promote peace, stability and inclusive development during his official visit to the country.
The pontiff delivered the message on Saturday at the Presidential Palace in Luanda, where he met President João Lourenço, government officials, civil society representatives and members of the diplomatic corps in his first public engagement.
Opening his address, Pope Leo said he had come to Angola “as a pilgrim” to meet its people and recognise what he described as signs of God’s presence in the country. He also expressed solidarity with victims of recent flooding in Benguela province, offering prayers for those affected and praising the national response as a “chain of solidarity”.
The Pope highlighted the resilience of Angolans, describing their people as the nation’s greatest resource. He noted a spirit of joy and endurance that persists despite hardship, saying such qualities could not be diminished by adversity.
At the same time, he warned against economic exploitation, criticising systems that treat people and resources as commodities. He urged a break from entrenched patterns that prioritise extraction over human dignity.
Broadening his remarks, Pope Leo described Africa as a continent of “joy and hope”, driven in part by its young population. He cautioned, however, that extractive economic models have contributed to social and environmental harm, while promoting exclusionary development.
Turning to governance, the Pope stressed the importance of dialogue and constructive engagement in addressing political and social challenges. He encouraged leaders to embrace differing views and transform conflict into cooperation, echoing the call for peacemaking emphasised by Pope Francis.
He urged Angolan authorities to place the common good above individual or political interests, warning against strategies that foster division and mistrust. Instead, he called for leadership rooted in hope, inclusion and mutual respect.
Concluding his address, Pope Leo expressed confidence in Angola’s future and reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s commitment to supporting a just and inclusive society.
“God bless Angola,” he said.
