Pope Leo XIV starts Africa tour in Algeria amid escalating feud with Trump

Article by Viory

Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune welcomed Pope Leo XIV as he arrived on a historic visit to Algeria on Monday, becoming the first-ever pontiff to step into the soil of this predominantly Muslim country.

Footage shows the head of the Catholic Church and the papal delegation attending a welcoming ceremony at Houari Boumediene International Airport, during which both national anthems were played.

Pope Leo XIV paid a visit to the famous Maqam Echahid or Martyrs’ Monument, laying a wreath to honour those killed during the 1954-1962 independence war. After paying tribute, the pontiff delivered a speech to the worshippers gathered at the nearby square.

“In this land where cultures and religions intersect, mutual respect is the path that enables everyone to walk together. May Algeria, firm in its roots and steadfast in the hope of its young men and women, continue to contribute to stability and dialogue within the international community and along the shores of the Mediterranean,” he said.

It was also reported that Tebboune affirmed Algeria’s readiness to keep working with the Vatican to promote ‘dialogue, understanding and coexistence.’

The first US pope left Rome for Algeria, where he is due to spend two days, amid a growing public rift with US President Donald Trump.

Leo XIV criticised Washington’s stance on conflicts and migration, calling for dialogue and restraint, while Trump hit back, accusing the Pope of being ‘weak’ and interfering in political matters, in a rare and direct clash between the White House and the Vatican.

“He’s wrong on the issues,” commented Trump in an interview. “I don’t think he should be getting into politics. I think he probably learned that from this.”

Trump’s attack drew sharp criticism from Catholics and several European politicians.

The stop in Algeria is part of the Pope’s Africa tour aimed at strengthening interfaith dialogue and promoting peace. During the 11-day apostolic journey, the Pope is scheduled to travel to four African nations: Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea.

With over 99 per cent of the Algerian population being Muslims, Islam is the dominant religion in the country. Meanwhile, Christians represent a small minority of less than one per cent, largely consisting of foreign residents.