The visit forms part of Leo’s final full day on an 11-day, four-nation Africa tour and continues a tradition established by his predecessor, Pope Francis, who prioritized prison outreach to highlight inmate welfare and systemic injustices.

Leo was scheduled to begin the day with a Mass in Mongomo before traveling to Bata, where he was also due to attend a memorial for victims of a 2021 military barracks explosion blamed on negligence.Human rights groups have intensified calls for the pope to address both domestic prison conditions and the implications of US deportation policies.

On the eve of the visit, around 70 organizations issued an open letter urging Leo to speak out against the transfer of migrants to countries where they have no ties and to discourage African governments from participating in such arrangements.

Equatorial Guinea’s justice system has faced sustained criticism from international bodies and advocacy groups. The United Nations welcomed the country’s abolition of the death penalty in 2022, but reports have continued to cite arbitrary arrests, political detentions, torture and poor prison conditions, as well as concerns over judicial independence.

The US State Department’s 2023 human rights report highlighted similar issues, including unlawful killings and life-threatening detention environments.Amnesty International has also raised concerns, stating that torture has been used to extract confessions and punish detainees, while harassment of human rights defenders and deficiencies in due process remain widespread.

The country, led by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo since 1979, has denied allegations of systemic abuses. Authorities have not publicly responded to questions regarding reported violations linked to agreements with the United States to accept deported migrants.

According to reporting by the Associated Press, at least 29 migrants with no ties to Equatorial Guinea have been deported there under such arrangements. While not held in the Bata prison, some remain detained in the capital Malabo with restricted access to legal and medical services, while others have been returned to their countries of origin, where they may face persecution.

Leo, the first US-born pope, has previously criticized US migration deportation policies as “extremely disrespectful.” Advocacy groups have urged him to use the visit to press for reforms, including improved detention conditions, judicial accountability and protections for migrants.

Tutu Alicante, head of the EG Justice organization, said the government had taken limited steps to improve certain facilities but warned that sustained reform would be the true measure of progress.

He called for sentence reviews and broader judicial changes as signals of commitment to justice and reconciliation.

The 16th-century church, built by Portuguese colonizers along the Kwanza River in Angola, formed part of a fortress complex that served as a staging point in the slave trade. Enslaved Africans were baptized there before being forced to march roughly 145 kilometers to Luanda, where they were shipped to the Americas.

Historians estimate that more than 5 million people departed from Angola, making it the largest single point of origin in the trans-Atlantic slave system.The Vatican’s early directives in the 15th century had authorized the enslavement of non-Christians, providing religious justification that intertwined Catholic expansion with colonial exploitation.

Over time, however, the Muxima site evolved into a major Catholic pilgrimage center after reports of an apparition of the Virgin Mary in the 19th century.Leo’s visit, part of an 11-day pastoral trip, is expected to include a Rosary prayer on the riverside esplanade near the church. While the Vatican has not confirmed whether the pope will directly address slavery, clergy in Angola view the visit as symbolically significant.

Rev. Celestino Epalanga of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Angola said the pope’s presence could help reframe the site’s meaning, transforming it from a place associated with suffering into one of spiritual renewal.The visit carries added resonance following revelations about Leo’s background.

The pontiff, born Robert Prevost in the United States, was found by a genealogical study to have Creole heritage, with ancestors in Louisiana identified as both enslaved individuals and slave owners. Historians note that some of the earliest enslaved Africans brought to Louisiana originated from Angola, creating a historical link between the region and the pope’s lineage.

Mariana Candido said the convergence of Leo’s heritage and the symbolic weight of Muxima presents a powerful moment for engagement with African Catholics. She added that the visit reflects an effort to align the Church more closely with local expressions of faith across the continent.

Analysts and clergy say Leo has been actively strengthening ties with Africa, including elevating African figures within the Church hierarchy. Stan Chu Ilo said the pope appears intent on addressing long-standing perceptions that Africa has been marginal within global Catholic leadership.Angola’s historical experience adds further context to the visit.

A former Portuguese colony until 1975, the country endured a prolonged civil war after independence that lasted nearly three decades and resulted in more than half a million deaths. Despite significant natural resources, including oil and diamonds, Angola continues to face challenges related to poverty, inequality and governance.

Opposition lawmaker Olivio Nkilumbo said he hoped the pope would use the visit to advocate for social justice and democratic reform, reflecting broader expectations among some Angolans that the Church can play a role in addressing contemporary political and economic issues.

The Vatican has indicated that themes of Leo’s Africa trip will include the exploitation of resources, corruption and governance, alongside pastoral outreach.

Church officials in Angola say they expect the visit to reinforce the institution’s role in promoting peace, reconciliation and social equity in a country still grappling with the legacies of slavery, colonialism and conflict.

In a social media post, Trump said the pope should “stop catering to the Radical Left,” adding that Leo was “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy.” Speaking to reporters later at Joint Base Andrews after arriving on Air Force One, Trump reiterated his criticism, saying, “I’m not a fan of Pope Leo.”

The remarks followed comments by Pope Leo over the weekend condemning what he described as the “delusion of omnipotence” driving the U.S.-Israel war in Iran, and calling on political leaders to pursue negotiations to end the conflict.

The pope delivered his message during an evening prayer service at St. Peter’s Basilica, coinciding with the start of direct talks between the United States and Iran in Pakistan under a fragile ceasefire arrangement.

While Leo did not explicitly mention Trump or the United States, his remarks were widely interpreted as directed at U.S. leadership, which has defended military actions and emphasized American strategic strength in the region.

The exchange marks a rare public dispute between a U.S. president and a sitting pope, and underscores broader divisions over foreign policy and the role of military force in resolving international conflicts.

The pope, the first from the United States, is scheduled to visit Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea, traveling nearly 18,000 km (11,185 miles) across 11 cities and towns on 18 flights in one of the most complex papal itineraries in decades.

Cardinal Michael Czerny said the trip was intended “to help turn the world’s attention to Africa,” underscoring the Vatican’s focus on a region where Catholic populations are expanding rapidly.

Leo, 70, has made limited overseas visits since his election last May, including trips to Turkiye and Lebanon late last year, and Monaco in March. The current tour marks his most extensive diplomatic and pastoral journey to date.

The visit will include a stop in Algeria, an overwhelmingly Muslim country with fewer than 10,000 Catholics among a population of around 48 million, marking the first time a sitting pope has visited the country.

Leo is expected to address political leaders there and visit the Great Mosque of Algiers, only his second visit to a mosque as pope.Across the four countries, Leo is scheduled to deliver 25 speeches addressing a range of issues including resource exploitation, interfaith dialogue and political governance, according to Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni.

Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea have long-serving leaders who have faced allegations of human rights abuses, which they deny.The largest gathering of the tour is expected in Cameroon’s coastal city of Douala, where Vatican officials estimate around 600,000 people could attend a papal Mass on Friday.

The trip is the 24th papal visit to Africa since the late 1960s and reflects the continent’s growing significance within the global Catholic Church, with more than 20 percent of adherents now based there.

Speaking at St. Peter’s Square after his Regina Coeli prayer, the pontiff said he felt “closer than ever” to Lebanon amid escalating violence, describing a moral obligation under international law to shield civilians from the effects of war.“

The principle of humanity entails the moral obligation to protect the civilian population from the atrocious effects of war,” he said, addressing crowds gathered at the Vatican.

Lebanon has been drawn into the regional conflict since last month, as Israel intensified strikes against Hezbollah, with Lebanese authorities reporting more than 2,000 people killed.

Without naming specific countries, the pope urged warring sides to seek a peaceful resolution, reiterating calls for dialogue and mediation over continued military escalation.

His remarks followed the failure of recent talks between the United States and Iran in Pakistan to reach an agreement aimed at ending the broader conflict.

On Saturday, the pope delivered one of his strongest appeals yet against the war, calling on leaders to halt hostilities and return to negotiations. “Stop! It is time for peace!” he said, criticizing what he described as a growing reliance on rearmament and displays of power.

The 70-year-old pontiff, who leads the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, has repeatedly called for de-escalation and a diplomatic solution to the conflict.

He is scheduled to travel to Algeria on Monday for an 11-day visit focused on interfaith dialogue and strengthening ties with the Islamic world.

Vatican officials said the trip is intended to engage with the Islamic world and address broader challenges of coexistence amid global tensions.The Algeria leg will be the first stop in a wider travel that includes Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea, covering approximately 18,000 kilometers between April 13 and 23.

During his visit to Algiers, Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to meet President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and address government officials and diplomats. He will also visit the Great Mosque of Algiers and meet members of the Catholic community, while holding private prayers for clergy killed during Algeria’s civil war in the 1990s.

A key moment of the trip will come in Annaba, historically associated with Saint Augustine, whose legacy has influenced the pope’s spiritual outlook. Leo, formerly Robert Francis Prevost and a member of the Augustinian order, has often described himself as a “son” of Augustine.

The visit comes as rights groups, including Human Rights Watch, EuroMed Rights and MENA Rights Group, have urged the Vatican to address concerns over restrictions on religious minorities in Algeria.

Algerian officials and local media have highlighted the symbolic significance of the visit, describing it as a reflection of the country’s stability and its role in fostering dialogue on the global stage.

The trip unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with the Vatican emphasizing a message centered on interfaith understanding and peaceful coexistence.

The visit underscores Jordan’s growing role as a hub for stability, peace, and sustainable economic development in the Middle East while opening new avenues for investment and cooperation with Europe.

A Mission to Strengthen Economic and Diplomatic Ties

King Abdullah’s visit seeks to build on Jordan’s long-standing partnership with Europe, with a strong focus on trade, investment, and green innovation.

According to Ali Murad, president of the European Chamber of Commerce (Eurocham) in Jordan, the meetings are designed to position Jordan as a reliable and strategic regional partner, particularly in industries that align with Europe’s development priorities — such as renewable energy, technology, tourism, and advanced manufacturing.

Murad emphasized that the European market is vital for Jordan’s economic growth, as the EU remains one of Jordan’s largest trading partners.

He noted that expanding access to European markets, improving export potential, and fostering private-sector partnerships will be key discussion points during the King’s meetings with EU leaders.

“Jordan’s growing cooperation with Europe reflects the country’s stability, transparency, and readiness to attract high-value investments,” Murad said.

“Through this visit, His Majesty is reaffirming Jordan’s position as a bridge between Europe and the Arab world.”

Advancing Regional Peace and Stability

In addition to economic diplomacy, King Abdullah’s European tour carries a powerful message of peace and regional stability.

During his meeting in Rome with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the Gaza ceasefire agreement.

Both sides emphasized the importance of ensuring that all parties — including Israel and Hamas — adhere to the terms of the US-brokered peace initiative to bring lasting calm to the region.

King Abdullah has long been recognized for his active role in promoting dialogue, humanitarian relief, and conflict resolution in the Middle East. His latest discussions highlight Jordan’s continuing diplomatic influence and its constructive engagement in fostering peace and coexistence.

Cultural and Religious Harmony on the Agenda

In a separate engagement at the Vatican, King Abdullah and Queen Rania met with Pope Leo XIV, underscoring Jordan’s longstanding commitment to religious harmony and the protection of sacred sites.

The King stressed the importance of preserving Christian heritage and religious landmarks in Jordan, a country known for its interfaith coexistence and respect for diversity.

This meeting further reinforces Jordan’s global image as a nation that promotes mutual understanding, religious tolerance, and cultural respect — values deeply appreciated by European partners and international organizations alike.

As global attention turns toward sustainable development, Jordan is positioning itself as a leader in the green economy.

Eurocham, in collaboration with Jordan’s public and private sectors, is actively identifying investment opportunities in renewable energy, eco-friendly infrastructure, and innovation-driven projects.

These initiatives align with both Jordan’s Vision 2033 and the EU Green Deal, creating synergies that will boost job creation, attract environmentally conscious investors, and support regional energy security.

Murad noted that Jordan’s renewable energy potential — particularly in solar and wind power — provides an ideal platform for European investors looking to partner in large-scale sustainable projects.

A Vision for a Prosperous Future

King Abdullah’s European visit is widely viewed as a turning point for Jordan-EU relations, one that could usher in a new era of mutual prosperity and shared progress.

By strengthening diplomatic dialogue and promoting inclusive growth, Jordan continues to enhance its global standing as a stable, forward-looking nation in a region often marked by uncertainty.

As the King’s tour continues, optimism remains high that the renewed partnerships forged during this visit will bring meaningful economic gains, foster innovation, and reinforce Jordan’s enduring role as a beacon of peace and cooperation in the Middle East.

In a moving address at St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV urged the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics to welcome migrants with open hearts, emphasizing solidarity, hope, and the Church’s role in a new missionary age

In a powerful message of compassion and solidarity, Pope Leo XIV called on Catholics worldwide to embrace migrants and refugees, reinforcing the Church’s mission as a source of hope, hospitality, and moral guidance. Speaking to thousands of pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on Sunday, the Pope highlighted the importance of welcoming newcomers as brothers and sisters, and of extending kindness and support to those seeking safety and dignity.

The Pope’s address, delivered during Mass celebrating the Jubilee of the Missionary World and the Jubilee of Migrants, emphasized that migrants should never face “the coldness of indifference or the stigma of discrimination.” Instead, he encouraged the faithful to see migration as an opportunity for the Church to renew itself through cultural exchange and human solidarity.

“This is a moment to open our arms and hearts,” Pope Leo said, urging Catholics to be a presence of consolation, hope, and support in the lives of migrants. By framing migration as an opportunity rather than a challenge, he highlighted the transformative potential of human connection, empathy, and shared faith.

A New Missionary Age
Pope Leo, elected in May to succeed the late Pope Francis, described the current period as a “new missionary age” for the global Church. In this era, he said, Catholics are called to act with compassion and solidarity toward those fleeing violence or seeking a safer life.

He noted that communities in traditional Christian regions, particularly in the West, have an opportunity to embrace people from the world’s South. This cultural and spiritual exchange, he explained, has the power to renew and enrich the Church, fostering understanding, growth, and unity across nations and communities.

The Pope’s message comes shortly after he offered thoughtful criticism of hard-line immigration policies, reminding the faithful that the Church’s teachings call for care, dignity, and the protection of life for all human beings. His remarks reaffirm the Church’s longstanding commitment to social justice, humanitarian aid, and global moral leadership.

Celebrating Diversity and Global Solidarity
The Jubilee event drew more than 10,000 pilgrims from over 95 countries, reflecting the truly global nature of the Church and its mission. By bringing together Catholics from diverse backgrounds, Pope Leo emphasized that migration enriches communities, fostering intercultural dialogue, mutual respect, and spiritual growth.

The Pope also encouraged Church leaders and local communities to see migrants not as outsiders, but as partners in building vibrant, inclusive, and compassionate societies. This perspective reinforces the idea that welcoming newcomers can strengthen social cohesion, inspire innovation, and deepen faith through acts of service and hospitality.

A Message for All Faithful
Pope Leo’s address was delivered from a prepared text, marking a thoughtful and measured tone that has distinguished his papacy so far. He invited all Catholics to consider how they can contribute positively to the lives of migrants, whether through volunteering, advocacy, or simple acts of kindness in daily life.

By framing migration as both a moral responsibility and an opportunity for renewal, the Pope’s message resonates beyond the Church, encouraging governments, communities, and individuals to work together to support displaced people and foster inclusive societies.

Hope, Compassion, and the Future
As the Church continues its holy year, Pope Leo’s call to action reminds the faithful that the mission of welcoming and supporting migrants is central to Catholic teaching. His words serve as a beacon of hope, encouraging empathy, understanding, and a renewed commitment to humanitarian principles.

For millions around the world, the Pope’s message underscores the importance of solidarity in a time of global uncertainty, demonstrating that faith, compassion, and proactive engagement can transform lives and communities. In embracing migrants, Catholics are invited to embody the Church’s values, create lasting connections, and participate in a global movement of hope, renewal, and shared humanity.

Through this vision, Pope Leo XIV inspires a forward-looking Church, one that is ready to meet the challenges of the modern world with wisdom, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the dignity of all people.

During the discussion, Prince Salman emphasized Bahrain’s dedication to defending the rights of individuals to worship freely and to promoting inclusive dialogue among cultures and faiths. According to the Bahrain News Agency, he underlined that Bahrain’s diverse religious landscape – encompassing numerous mosques, churches, and temples – reflects the nation’s steadfast commitment to peace, harmony, and mutual respect.

Prince Salman praised the pope’s role in advocating compassion, understanding, and solidarity among different religions, noting that such efforts are essential to building a more tolerant and cooperative world. “Religious dialogue and mutual respect are fundamental to global peace, and Bahrain remains fully committed to these values,” he said.

The meeting also focused on strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors, including education, culture, and social development, to foster a shared vision of coexistence and progress. Prince Salman highlighted the potential for bilateral and multilateral partnerships that can enhance understanding and collaboration between nations and religious communities.

Several senior officials accompanied the Crown Prince during the Vatican visit, including Sheikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Minister of the Prime Minister’s Court; Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs; and Sheikh Salman bin Khalifa Al-Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy. Their presence underscored the strategic importance of interfaith dialogue and international cooperation in Bahrain’s foreign policy agenda.

This high-profile meeting comes at a time when the global community is increasingly focused on religious tolerance, coexistence, and cultural understanding. Bahrain’s leadership has consistently promoted inclusive policies and initiatives that encourage harmony among diverse religious and ethnic groups. By engaging directly with leaders such as Pope Leo XIV, the kingdom is strengthening its role as a model for interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence in the region and beyond.

The Crown Prince’s discussions in Vatican City also reflect Bahrain’s commitment to supporting international efforts to combat extremism and promote education, dialogue, and shared human values. Observers note that such visits reinforce the kingdom’s vision of building bridges across cultures, faiths, and nations, creating a foundation for long-term peace and prosperity.

Bahrain’s emphasis on dialogue, tolerance, and religious freedom aligns with the broader vision of fostering global understanding and solidarity. Through continued engagement with religious and international leaders, the kingdom is positioning itself as a beacon of coexistence and a champion of universal values.

The meeting between Prince Salman and Pope Leo XIV is seen as a landmark moment in Bahrain’s ongoing efforts to promote harmony, strengthen international partnerships, and highlight the importance of mutual respect and understanding in today’s interconnected world.