Quirno explains why Pope will visit Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Luján

Pope Leo XIV is set to visit Argentina from November 8 to 11, marking a significant pastoral trip that will include stops in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Luján. The Vatican confirmed the dates, with Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno detailing the reasons behind the chosen itinerary.

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It was for a matter of reference for the Catholic community. The trips of the popes generally pass through the capital [of the country] and other places.

Quirno explained that the selection of cities was a joint decision between the Holy See and Argentine ecclesiastical authorities. "It was for a matter of reference for the Catholic community," he stated, noting that papal visits typically include the capital and other key locations. Luján was chosen for its profound significance to all Argentines, particularly due to its famous Basilica, while Córdoba was selected for its strong Catholic presence and central location, making it accessible from other regions.

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It is a device that we are already coordinating from the Ministry of Security. The responsibility is of the national authorities. A unified command will be carried out with the assistance of the security forces of the different jurisdictions.

Security arrangements are a top priority, with a unified command being established. "It is a device that we are already coordinating from the Ministry of Security," Quirno said, emphasizing that national authorities hold responsibility. The plan involves collaboration with security forces from various jurisdictions, including the province of Buenos Aires and Córdoba. "The Pope's security is absolutely guaranteed," Quirno assured, drawing on Argentina's experience in hosting similar large-scale events.

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The Pope's security is absolutely guaranteed. Argentina has already held events of this nature. We have the experience to do it.

Addressing potential political interpretations of the visit, Quirno stressed that the Pope "is not coming to one province" but to Argentina as a whole. "We are not going to make this a political visit," he insisted, aiming for the most successful papal visit in history. Further details of the schedule will be released in due course, according to the Vatican.

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We are not going to make this a political visit. We are going to coordinate with the authorities to make it the best visit of a Pope in history.