During the G7 Summit in Italy the Pop made a visit to spend time with the world leaders.
When it was President Joe Biden’s turn to meet with Pope Francis it was weird. The interaction between the Pope and the second Catholic president of the United States occurred during a meeting focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Pope Francis used the opportunity to discuss the risks and promises of AI, as well as to defend the role of politics in a room filled with leaders facing numerous challenges.
Here’s one angle:
NEW: President Joe Biden goes in for an intimate forehead to forehead with the Pope at the G7 summit in Italy.
Pope Francis appeared to look uncomfortable with the gesture.
According to insiders at the G7, Biden’s performance is the “worst” it has ever been, noting that he… pic.twitter.com/o94JTQo8WH
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) June 14, 2024
For those saying we are cherry picking take a look at a close up capturing the reaction of Javier Milei the President of Argentina.
Milei’s reaction to Biden nuzzling Pope Francis is very funny. pic.twitter.com/3qXc9HWG7L
— Flappr (@flapprdotnet) June 14, 2024
Why did he do that? Who knows, maybe he was having trouble hearing.
The Pope delivered a 20-minute speech in Italian, emphasizing the necessity of politics and warning of the ethical challenges posed by AI. “We need politics,” he declared, noting that he had prepared a longer version of his speech but chose the shorter one for the occasion. The pontiff’s address touched on profound ethical concerns related to AI and the potential dangers of a culture that disregards human life. “No machine should ever decide to take the life of a human being away,” he stated, highlighting the importance of preserving human dignity in the face of technological advancements.
The Pope’s speech also included a call for political leaders to strive for universal brotherhood and social peace through good politics. “How can the world operate without politics?” he asked, reinforcing the idea that politics, despite its flaws, is essential for achieving global harmony. He cited a previous Pope’s assertion that politics is the highest form of charity, underscoring its vital role in society.
Biden and Pope Francis have developed a personal rapport over the years. U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican Joe Donnelly remarked on their relationship, noting that “These two love each other.” During their last meeting in 2021, the Pope asked First Lady Jill Biden to pray for him, and Biden shared some of his trademark stories, presenting the Pope with a challenge coin and joking about who would buy the drinks at their next meeting. Biden has often expressed admiration for the Pope, calling him “the most significant warrior for peace I’ve ever met.”
Friday’s meeting was closed to the press, but a senior administration official described a “very warm embrace” between Biden and the Pope at the AI session. The official highlighted that their discussions likely included topics of mutual concern, such as the Middle East conflict, climate change, and the responsible use of AI. Both leaders are committed to ensuring that AI advancements do not compromise human dignity and rights.
The backdrop to this meeting includes Biden’s ongoing political and personal struggles as he seeks reelection at 81. His son Hunter Biden’s recent conviction on three felony gun charges adds to the challenges he faces. Despite these difficulties, the President remains focused on addressing global issues and maintaining strong relationships with influential leaders like Pope Francis.
Pope Francis, who arrived dramatically by helicopter near the tranquil Borgo Egnazia village on the Adriatic coast, used his presence to support and encourage the beleaguered politicians. He joked about bringing two versions of his speech and opted for the shorter one, displaying his characteristic humility and sense of humor.
