Pope urges Europe to counter ‘lies and deceit’

METZ (AFP) — Pope Leo XIV urged Europe to help counter “lies and deceit” in international affairs Monday as he wrapped up a four-day visit to France.

Speaking in Metz alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and other leaders, Leo warned that relations between people and nations were becoming increasingly uncivilized.

“Relations between individuals and states are becoming increasingly uncivilized. The value of keeping one’s word is dismissed. Instead, people boast of lies and deceit,” Leo said.

“Europe can help to break this cycle through the respect for others that it has learned to cultivate and preserve,” he added.

The pope also called for dialogue and compromise to end wars, including the conflict in Ukraine.

“We need to commit ourselves to patient dialogue, to show courage in negotiation and to be willing to give up some positions for the greater good of peace.”

Leo also appealed for European unity and urged countries to welcome people fleeing war and persecution.

Macron, speaking alongside the pope, called on Europe to counter resurgent nationalism and become a stronger force for peace and democracy.

Leo later celebrated Mass at St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Metz before concluding the first official papal visit to France in nearly two decades.