Pope in pretty good health as Latin America tour starts

Pope Leo XIV, 71, told reporters travelling with him to Latin America that he is "in pretty good health" as he arrives in Uruguay, three weeks after undergoing surgery for lung cancer.

He reached Uruguay, the opening leg of a 12‑day itinerary that will also visit Argentina and Peru – a return the Vatican called a "homecoming". He said he was "very happy" to make the trip, which had been in doubt after doctors found a tumour in a routine scan. The operation to remove the tumour succeeded and doctors say the cancer has not spread.

Speaking to journalists on his plane to Uruguay, the Pope said, "I must confess that, from the very first day, I never had any doubts; I was convinced that this journey had to go forward." He added, "Thanks to the marvellous medical staff... I believe I am in quite good health," and was greeted by crowds lining the Montevideo seafront as his Popemobile passed.

In his first speech at Plaza Independencia he urged that universal healthcare be "accessible to everyone" and reflected on the care he received, noting the "many men and women who lack the means to obtain a timely diagnosis" or treatment. He ended the day with a prayer at Montevideo Cathedral and will travel on Sunday to Argentina, later covering more than 20,000 miles on his sixth international tour, saying his visit is about being near people seeking a message of "hope".