Overview

• Argentina's President Javier Milei and Pope Francis met for the first time, putting aside past criticisms to focus on the country's economic crisis.
• Milei, who previously called Francis an 'imbecile,' has softened his tone, presenting the Pope with Argentine pastries as a gesture of reconciliation.
• The meetings come as Argentina faces its worst economic crisis in decades, with inflation over 200% and significant public opposition to Milei's austerity measures.
• Pope Francis, who has not visited Argentina since becoming Pope in 2013, discussed the possibility of a visit in the second half of this year.
• The reconciliation between Milei and Francis is seen as a significant step towards addressing Argentina's challenges, both domestically and in terms of international relations.