Pope Leo XIV, in his first address to world diplomats at the Vatican, said on Friday that the dignity of migrants had to be respected, while also calling on nations to halt the production of weapons and prioritize peace efforts.

The U.S. pope described himself as a “descendant of immigrants” and called for compassion and solidarity with displaced persons.

Pope Leo XIV addresses the Holy See Diplomatic Corps, and encourages ambassadors to pursue paths of peace.https://t.co/uBGc00sc3o

— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) May 16, 2025

Pope Leo also used his speech to restate the Church’s traditional teaching on marriage, affirming that it is a “stable union between a man and a woman” and underscoring the importance of family as a foundation for harmony in society.

 Papal Conclave | Peace be with you all: Pope Leo XIV