Pope Leo XIV ended his four-day state visit to France on 28 September with a warning about artificial intelligence. He called AI a major challenge facing humanity.

The Pope spoke of the danger of a ‘paradise of machines’ that could push human values aside. He urged Europe to blunt what he called the desire for domination.

It was the first official papal visit to France in nearly two decades. The Pope met President Emmanuel Macron in Paris during the trip.

Reports said the visit drew large crowds at several stops. The Pope’s comments on technology were a key theme of his addresses.

The Vatican has increasingly spoken on AI ethics. The Pope’s message is expected to shape church thinking on the issue for years to come. The Pope also spoke about Europe’s role in the world. He said the continent must stand for human dignity at a time of rapid technological change.