Pope Leo criticizes colonization of minerals, 'lust for power' in Equatorial Guinea
Summary
Pope Leo XIV visited Equatorial Guinea, condemning the control of Africa’s mineral resources and the desire for power in the country. He met with President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo and spoke about economic inequality and conflicts linked to resource exploitation.Key Facts
- Pope Leo XIV arrived in Equatorial Guinea, the last stop of his Africa trip.
- Equatorial Guinea’s president, Teodoro Obiang, has ruled since 1979 and faces accusations of corruption.
- The country's economy grew after oil was found in the 1990s but over half the people still live in poverty.
- Pope Leo criticized how mineral resources are often taken without respect for local people’s rights or international law.
- The U.S. government is working to secure access to Africa’s minerals and reduce China’s influence in the region.
- Equatorial Guinea is building a new capital called Ciudad de la Paz, but some worry this could increase inequality.
- Pope Leo referenced St. Augustine’s idea of two cities to highlight differences between the current reality and a just society.
- The visit was the first papal trip to Equatorial Guinea since 1982.
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