Argentina's President Milei hails Pope's 'wisdom' despite 'differences'

Argentina's President Javier Milei has paid tribute to Pope Francis's "goodness and wisdom," following the pontiff's passing on Monday.

Milei, 54, also acknowledged the pair's "differences" in a post on social media.

"In spite of differences that today seem minor, to have known him in his goodness and wisdom was a true honour for me," Milei posted on X.

The Pope's delicate relationship with politics in his homeland was evidenced in his dealings with Milei, who before taking office in late 2023 accused him of political interference and called him an "imbecile" who "promotes communism."

Milei subsequently apologised and was received at the Vatican shortly after his election. Photos showed the fellow Argentines smiling and embracing.

"It is with deep sorrow that I learn this morning that Pope Francis, Jorge Bergoglio, passed away today and is now resting in peace. In spite of differences that today seem minor, to have known him in his goodness and wisdom was a true honour for me," wrote Milei, referring to the pontiff's birth name.

"As President, as an Argentine and, fundamentally, as a man of Faith, I bid farewell to the Holy Father and I accompany all of us who today are faced with this sad news," concluded Milei.

Pope Francis, who left hospital in March after receiving treatment for double pneumonia, died just a day after he delighted the crowds at the Vatican on Easter Sunday with an appearance on the balcony at Saint Peter's Basilica.

He never returned to Argentina after being elected Pope in 2013.

– TIMES/AFP