Pope Leo and French President Macron Meet in Paris with AI on the Agenda
Conducting a four-day official visit to France, Pope Leo XIV met with President Emmanuel Macron in Paris to discuss the challenges posed by artificial intelligence for humanity.
Pope Leo XIV met with President Emmanuel Macron in Paris as part of his four-day official visit to France, warning that artificial intelligence and technological developments must not come at the expense of human life.
Visit to France and Elysee Palace Meeting
Pope Leo XIV arrived in the capital Paris on Friday, marking the first official papal visit to France in nearly twenty years, and addressed an audience of about 500 invitees at the Elysee Palace.
Artificial Intelligence and Technology Warning
The Pope described artificial intelligence as one of the greatest challenges facing humanity, stating that science and technology can mislead people if not guided by conscience.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that humanity's rightful place must be protected against the power of digital technology, stating that artificial intelligence should be a servant rather than a master.
Church and Social Dynamics
The papal visit took place in the shadow of declines in public support for the church and debates over ethical issues such as assisted dying recently legalized by the French parliament. While less than a third of the French population identifies as Catholic, national statistics also show an increase in adult baptisms in the country in recent years.
Ethical Values and Global Issues
Pope Leo drew attention to the risk of science and technology being transformed into profit-driven enterprises, expressing concern over trends such as genetic manipulation, surrogacy, organ trafficking, and euthanasia.
UNESCO and Notre-Dame Visits
The Pope delivered a speech at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization headquarters in Paris and also attended a prayer service at the Notre-Dame Cathedral, which reopened after being restored following the 2019 fire.
Closing with the Metz Program
Pope Leo will conclude his engagements in France with an interfaith dialogue meeting and mass in the northeastern city of Metz before returning to Rome.