Departure from Rome

Telegram to the President of the Italian Republic

Telegram to the President of the Swiss Confederation

Official Welcome at Paris Orly International Airport

Departure from Rome

This morning, Pope Leo XIV began his fifth Apostolic Journey, which will take him to France and to the headquarters of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

After leaving the Vatican, the Holy Father transferred by car to Leonardo da Vinci / Rome Fiumicino International Airport, from where he departed at 7.58 on board an ITA Airways A321 bound for Paris.

The aircraft carrying the Holy Father landed at Paris Orly International Airport at 09.56.

Telegram to the President of the Italian Republic

As he left Italian territory, the Holy Father sent the following telegram to the President of the Italian Republic, the Honourable Sergio Mattarella:

His Excellency
Hon. Sergio Mattarella
Quirinal Palace 00187 Rome

As I prepare to undertake my Apostolic Journey to France, under the watchful eye of the Virgin Mary, to whose intercession we entrust our desire for peace and reconciliation among peoples, I am pleased to extend to you, Mr. President, my cordial greetings, accompanied by my fervent wishes for the well-being and prosperity of the entire Italian nation.

Leo PP. XIV

Telegram to the President of the Swiss Confederation

During the flight to Paris, while passing through Swiss airspace, the Holy Father Leo XIV sent the following telegram to the President of the Swiss Confederation:

His Excellency Guy Parmelin
President of the Swiss Confederation
Bern

As I fly through Swiss airspace on my Apostolic Journey to France, I send cordial greetings to Your Excellency and your fellow citizens, and I invoke Almighty God’s gifts of peace and joy upon the nation.

Leo PP. XIV

Official Welcome at Paris Orly International Airport

Upon arrival at Paris Orly International Airport, Pope Leo XIV was welcomed by the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, at the foot of the front staircase of the aircraft.

After the national anthems, military honours, and the presentation of the respective delegations, the Pope, together with the President of the Republic, proceeded to the Hall of Honour for a brief private meeting before departing for the Élysée Palace.