Pope Francis, in a significant admonition during a private audience with Rio Grande Mayor Martín Pérez on Wednesday, emphasized the importance of protecting the environment and supporting sustainable development in their region. The pontiff, expressing deep concern for ecological issues, especially those impacting the Rio Grande area, called on Mayor Pérez to implement robust environmental policies to safeguard natural resources and promote social welfare. Highlighting his recurrent theme of environmental care, Pope Francis encouraged Mayor Pérez to consider the long-term impact of local policies on the global fight against climate change. He stressed the importance of integrating economic development with environmental sustainability to achieve a balanced and humane approach to urban planning and development. During this discussion, the Pope also touched upon the need for community involvement in environmental decision-making processes, suggesting that a cooperative approach would foster stronger relationships between the government and the public, enhancing efforts to address ecological concerns effectively. Mayor Pérez, responding to Pope Francis's directive, promised to prioritize these issues in his administration's agenda. He acknowledged the importance of the Pope's guidance, expressing a commitment to deploying more environmentally friendly practices in government projects and initiatives. The meeting between Pope Francis and Mayor Pérez underlines the Pope's ongoing commitment to environmental and social issues, a core element of his papacy since its inception in 2013. This engagement highlights the influential role Pope Francis continues to play in global discussions surrounding sustainability and ethical governance.