Pope Leo XIV on the first day of a week-long visit to Spain called on people to stop “fanning the flames of polarization.”

In a speech Saturday, the pontiff urged turning away from the temptation to gain popularity through divisive rhetoric. He said: “I invite everyone to set aside the divisive and polarizing narratives of your societal reality and history, so as to overcome sterile simplifications through the fruitful appreciation of complexity.”

Pope Leo, the first American to lead the Catholic Church, blamed technology for deepening prejudices and weakening critical thinking.

His remarks come as Spain faces controversies over immigration and political corruption.

The pope cited Spain’s history of peaceful coexistence among religions and cultures, adding that “a culture of encounter, not confrontation, is what fosters stability and prosperity.”

“In reality, the message of peace, which at present unfortunately strikes some as naïve and others as confrontational, is welcomed by those who do not shut themselves off in preconceived ideologies, but are rather open to the truth,” he said.

The visit has been met with excitement: billboards, posters, and subway cars in Madrid feature his image.

It coincides with two concerts by Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny. The pope joked: “If they are confronted with the question ‘Do you want to go see Bad Bunny or do you want to go to see the pope?’ I think many will see Bad Bunny. But I think there will also be a few here to see the pope. And that says something, you know.”

Pope Leo has been vocal on global issues including immigration, artificial intelligence, and the US-Israeli war on Iran. He has an ongoing public disagreement with US President Donald Trump.

Source: www.aljazeera.com