France: Pope Leo XIV keeps visit focused on faith over politics

Pope Leo XIV has declined a state dinner, the Legion of Honour and a private meeting with President Emmanuel Macron, keeping his four-day France visit centred on its apostolic mission despite official talks at the Élysée. While the Vatican cited scheduling reasons, some observers see a desire to emphasise the trip's spiritual focus, even as the pontiff is set to address European security and peace during his stop in Metz.