Pope Leo XIV expressed his appreciation to Italy on Tuesday for its dedicated efforts in the fight against human trafficking. During a formal meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace, the Pope emphasised the importance of maintaining an open approach to welcoming and integrating migrants.
This meeting marked a significant rite of passage for the newly appointed Pope. Pope Leo acknowledged Italy’s generosity, particularly highlighting the country’s hospitality toward pilgrims during the 2025 Holy Year, which has drawn millions of additional visitors to Rome. In his address, he commended Italy for its “generous assistance” to migrants and its proactive initiatives to combat human trafficking.
“I encourage you to keep alive your attitude of openness and solidarity,” he said. “At the same time, I wish to emphasise the importance of constructive integration of newcomers into the values and traditions of Italian society, so that the mutual gift realised in this encounter of peoples may truly enrich and benefit all,” The Associated Press reports.
The text outlines Italy’s crucial role in Europe’s migration debate, mainly due to its proximity to North Africa, which makes it a primary destination for smuggling operations from Libya and Tunisia.
Under Premier Giorgia Meloni, whose government is a coalition of far-right and conservative parties, there is a strong focus on combating illegal migration through measures such as repatriation and the prosecution of smugglers.
Italy’s strict immigration policies often contrast with Pope Francis’ calls for wealthier nations to welcome and integrate newcomers, a stance reiterated in his latest teaching document.
This meeting underscored the enduring relationship between Italy and the Vatican, a city-state of 44 hectares (110 acres) in the centre of Rome. The Quirinale Palace historically served as a summer residence for popes until 1870, when Rome was integrated into the Kingdom of Italy. Relations between Italy and the Holy See were formalised in 1929 through the Lateran Treaty, which remains in effect today.
