French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a significant address on the future of the European Union on September 28, 2026, alongside Pope Leo XIV in the city of Metz. The speech took place during the final day of the Pontiff’s official visit to France.
In his remarks, President Macron argued that the continent must rediscover the “courage of its founders.” He explicitly warned against succumbing to the “resurgence of nationalism,” framing it as a critical challenge for the bloc’s cohesion and identity.
The meeting between the French head of state and the Pope highlighted the intersection of religious leadership and political discourse on European unity as the pontiff concluded his stay in France.
I’m surprised Leo XIV took such a firm political stance. I expected more spiritual focus during his tour.
Courage or empty rhetoric? Europe needs concrete action, not just poetic speeches from religious figures.
Is the Pope really endorsing specific EU political agendas? Seems like a slippery slope between church and state.
Finally, a leader acknowledging the nationalist threat. Metz was the right symbolic choice for this message.