Speaking in Tenerife, one of the islands that has become a major route for irregular migration to Europe, the pope described integration as a “reciprocal journey” and called on migrants to learn local languages, respect laws, understand customs and participate in community life.

The pope also warned of what he called a “silent shipwreck” after migrants reach their destinations, saying some are left without support, social connections, work or security and become vulnerable to exploitation.

The visit marked the final day of a weeklong trip to Spain focused on migration issues. The leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics called for greater assistance for migrants and stronger action against human trafficking networks.

He urged those involved in trafficking people to “stop and repent,” drawing applause from the audience.

Tenerife and other Canary Islands have become a gateway for thousands of migrants attempting to reach Europe from Africa. The route across the Atlantic has been among the world’s most dangerous migration paths.

Earlier in the visit, Leo condemned indifference toward migrants and honored those who died attempting the journey by casting a wreath into the sea at the port of Arguineguin.

“Human dignity has no passport,” he said while blessing a wooden cross made from material taken from a migrant boat.

The International Organization for Migration reported that nearly 1,200 people died or went missing while traveling from Africa to the Canary Islands last year.

The pope said the deaths should prompt governments in countries of origin and transit to address the conditions that push people to flee poverty and conflict, while also confronting trafficking groups.

Leo is scheduled to travel to Rome after the visit and is expected to speak with reporters during the journey. He is also set to visit Italy’s Lampedusa island on July 4, another major arrival point for migrants entering Europe.

US ambassador to the Holy See Brian Burch said Rubio’s visit would focus on dialogue and engagement over policy differences. “Nations have disagreements,” Burch told reporters, adding the meeting would aim to foster “authentic dialogue” and mutual understanding.

The visit follows renewed criticism by Trump, who accused the pope of undermining US policy on Iran. In recent remarks, Trump suggested the pontiff’s position could endanger people, comments that drew backlash from Christian leaders across political lines.The pope has not supported Iran acquiring nuclear weapons but has opposed the US-led war, which Washington says is aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear program.

In recent weeks, Leo has emerged as a vocal critic of the conflict, as well as of US immigration policies.Burch dismissed suggestions of a deep rift between Washington and the Vatican, saying Rubio’s visit was intended to strengthen communication and address differences directly.

Rubio, a Catholic, previously met the pope last year alongside Vice President JD Vance after attending his inaugural mass, marking one of the few high-level engagements between the Trump administration and the Vatican.During his trip, Rubio is also scheduled to meet Giorgia Meloni in Rome.

Italian officials have expressed concern that the Iran conflict could affect US global leadership, while Meloni has publicly defended the pope.Leo, who marks his first year leading the Catholic Church this week, has increasingly taken positions on international issues, calling for dialogue and restraint in global conflicts.