00:00Pope Leo XIV has praised Spain for his stance on Gaza, Iran and Ukraine and for welcoming migrants at the
00:08start of a week-long state visit that marks the first people trip to the country in 15 years.
00:15Speaking at a reception at Madrid's Royal Palace, the Pope expressed his gratitude for the country's faithful adherence to international
00:22law and multilateralism, which he said is reflected in an active commitment to peace.
00:28The visit comes at a time of political polarization for the country, with the ruling Socialist Party facing criticism over
00:37immigration policies and internal corruption scandals.
00:41The trip is also taking place under the shadow of the clergy sexual abuse crisis, and the Vatican confirmed that
00:47the Pope will meet with survivors as the Spanish church reconsiders decades of abuse and cover-ups.
00:54Leo XIV has already met with the Spanish royals, and later he will deliver a historic address to both chambers
01:00of the parliament on June 8, a fast for any Pope.
01:04The pointeif will then turn to Barcelona to celebrate Mass at Antony Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece, where he will inaugurate the
01:12central spire that makes it the world's tallest church, and is on track to be officially completed this year.
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