Pope visits Uruguay starting 3-nation visit to Latin America

Three weeks after lung cancer surgery, Pope Leo XIV opened a three-nation, 12-day tour of Latin America on Friday by declaring he felt better than he looked and crediting God,

good doctors and his healthy lifestyle with his quick recovery.

Crowds welcomed Pope Leo as he rode through the streets of Montevideo the capital of Uruguay, in the popemobile.

The Vatican estimated 30,000 people turned out along his route and the ceremony where he gave a speech.

Speaking in Spanish, Leo praised Uruguay's development while recalling its Catholic heritage and responsibility to care for vulnerable people.

His remarks alluded to the church's opposition to euthanasia, which Uruguay legalised in 2025, and abortion.

At the capital's Plaza Independecia, Pope Leo was greeted by Uruguayan President Yamandu Orsi and government officials.

The country is known for its secularism, separating church and state over a century ago. The pope's visit aims to reconnect the country with its Catholic roots.

Speaking to journalist while travelling to Uruguay, the pope said he was proud to have exercised his right to vote in the recent midterm elections.

Associated Press reporter Nicole Winfield said. "Pope Leo says he is proud to be America and to have exercised his right to in the recent US midterm elections.

He wouldn't say who he voted for or what he thought of the outcome but he reaffirmed the importance of casting the ballot. He said he wasn't able to do it in recent elections in Peru,

because he wasn't allowed to cast the ballot from outside of Peru."

Leo also told reporters he had no doubt this trip would take place after his surgery for lung cancer. "I'm very happy to be here myself.

I know some people were doubtful about this trip taking place. I confess that from the first day, I had no doubt and I was convinced

that this trip had to go forward, and I am very happy to say, praise the Lord, and thanks to wonderful medical assistance. I am here today,

I think in fairly good shape. So you are the witnesses for that, and I'm happy that you're joining us."