Ramaphosa meets Pope Leo XIV in Vatican to strengthen global peace and solidarity

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met Pope Leo XIV at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City on November 8, 2025, for a historic discussion centered on global peace, solidarity, and shared responsibility in addressing the world’s growing challenges. The meeting marked one of the first high-level engagements between South Africa and the newly appointed Pontiff. Both leaders emphasized the urgent need for moral leadership in tackling poverty, inequality, and conflict across the globe. President Ramaphosa, known for promoting the African philosophy of ubuntu — “I am because we are” — called

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met Pope Leo XIV at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City on November 8, 2025, for a historic discussion centered on global peace, solidarity, and shared responsibility in addressing the world’s growing challenges. The meeting marked one of the first high-level engagements between South Africa and the newly appointed Pontiff. Both leaders emphasized the urgent need for moral leadership in tackling poverty, inequality, and conflict across the globe. President Ramaphosa, known for promoting the African philosophy of ubuntu — “I am because we are” — called for greater unity among nations and institutions to build a world rooted in justice and compassion. Pope Leo XIV, who has prioritized dialogue and reconciliation since the beginning of his papacy, praised South Africa’s commitment to peacebuilding and human dignity. He reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s role in fostering social cohesion and protecting the vulnerable, particularly in regions affected by war, displacement.