The President of the United States, Joe Biden, spoke with Pope Francis this Saturday (11) and awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction, the country’s highest civilian honor. This was the first time during his term that Biden awarded the medal “with distinction”.
The president canceled a trip to Rome, where he would meet in person with Francisco, to follow the federal response to the fires in California. Biden expressed his disappointment at not being able to go, but said it was more important to stay in Washington.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to U.S. prosperity, values, or security, world peace, or other social endeavors. Biden, a week earlier, had already granted the honor to other personalities, such as Hillary Clinton, José Andrés and Jane Goodall.
During the conversation, the two leaders discussed efforts to promote world peace, including the pope’s work to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable communities. Biden praised Pope Francis for his life dedicated to serving the poor and vulnerable, highlighting his commitment to peace and the planet.
Both Biden and Francis faced significant global challenges. The pope has been pushing for an end to the war in Ukraine and has criticized Israel’s actions against Hamas. Biden, in turn, has been the target of criticism for his support for abortion rights, something that, throughout his political career, has distanced him from traditional Catholic doctrine, although he has received support from Francis on these issues.
(Com Reuters)
