In a surprising turn of events, the Pope is set to meet with the president of Argentina, Javier Milei, at the Vatican next Monday, February 12. This meeting marks the first time the two leaders will come face-to-face and is part of Milei’s international tour, which includes visits to Israel and Italy.

The meeting will take place in the private library of the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican at 9 in the morning. Milei will arrive by car to the Vatican Courtyard of San Damaso, where he will then proceed to the private library for the meeting.

It is worth noting that Pope Francis, formerly known as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, has not visited his native country, Argentina, since becoming Pope in 2013. This meeting presents an opportunity for Milei to extend an official invitation for the Pope to visit Argentina, an invitation that he already sent by letter.

Prior to the meeting with the Pope, Milei is scheduled to attend the canonization of Mama Antula, the first Argentine saint, in St. Peter’s Basilica on February 11. This event holds significance for Argentina and further adds to the significance of Milei’s visit.

Milei’s trip to Israel

Before his meeting with the Pope, Milei embarked on an official state visit to Israel. During his visit, he will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other Israeli authorities. Additionally, Milei will take advantage of the opportunity to stopover in Italy.

The president is accompanied by a delegation, including his sister and general secretary of the Presidency, Karina Milei; the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Diana Mondino; and the designated ambassador to Israel, Axel Wahnish.

During the stopover in Rome, Milei will be joined by the Minister of the Interior, Guillermo Francos; the Minister of Human Capital, Sandra Pettovello; and the Secretary of Worship, Francisco Sánchez, as confirmed by the Argentine Presidency.