Pope Leo XIV has welcomed Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to the Vatican for high-level talks ahead of the Pontiff’s upcoming visit to Spain, with migration, global conflicts and social issues dominating discussions.

The meeting took place at the Apostolic Palace on Tuesday May 27 and marked one of the most significant diplomatic encounters between the Vatican and the Spanish government since Pope Leo XIV was elected earlier this year.

According to the Holy See, both leaders discussed international peace efforts, humanitarian concerns and cooperation between Spain and the Catholic Church, while also touching on preparations for the Pope’s highly anticipated June trip to Spain.

Spain visit moves closer

The meeting comes just weeks before Pope Leo XIV is expected to travel to Spain for a major Apostolic Journey from June 6-12 that will include stops in Madrid, Barcelona and the Canary Islands.

The visit is expected to attract huge crowds and significant international attention, with Spanish authorities already preparing for major public events and security operations.

During the audience, Sánchez reportedly invited the Pope to continue strengthening dialogue on social cohesion, migration and support for vulnerable communities – themes expected to feature heavily during the upcoming trip.

Migration and humanitarian issues discussed

Migration was one of the central topics raised during the Vatican talks, particularly Spain’s role on Europe’s southern border and the ongoing humanitarian pressures facing the Canary Islands.

The Vatican said both leaders also discussed “the need to build bridges of dialogue” amid ongoing global conflicts and instability.

Pope Leo XIV has repeatedly stressed the importance of protecting migrants and displaced people since taking office, making the issue one of the defining themes of his papacy so far.

The Spanish government has similarly pushed for greater European cooperation on migration management and humanitarian support.

Huge crowds expected during papal trip

Pope Leo XIV’s June visit is expected to include official meetings with King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, large public Masses and visits to social projects and religious landmarks.

One of the standout moments is expected to be the Pope’s visit to Barcelona’s Sagrada Família Basilica, where he is due to take part in a special ceremony linked to the completion of the basilica’s central tower.

The Canary Islands leg of the journey is also expected to focus heavily on migration, with meetings planned between the Pope, humanitarian organisations and migrant communities.

For Spain, the trip is likely to become one of the year’s most closely watched international events, blending religion, politics and social issues on a global stage.