Pope calls on U.S. to fight climate change during historic visit

Pope Francis called on the United States to help tackle climate change during his first visit to the world's richest nation.

In a speech at the White House on the first full day of his U.S. trip, the Argentine pontiff praised President Barack Obama's efforts to reduce pollution.

Francis made the environment one of his top priorities by issuing a landmark encyclical letter to the church earlier this year.

At a welcome ceremony at the White House the Pope said: "It seems clear to me also that climate change is a problem which can no longer be left to a future generation. When it comes to the care of our common home, we are living at a critical moment of history."

It is the first time Pope Francis has visited the U.S and kicks off a much anticipated three-city tour that includes Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City.

"We know by faith that the Creator does not abandon us; he never forsakes his loving plan or repents of having created us. Humanity still has the ability to work together in building our common home."

Francis is scheduled to speak before Congress on Thursday, where he is expected to present his climate agenda directly to U.S. lawmakers.

President Obama praised the Pope’s stance on climate change, saying: "you remind us that we have a sacred obligation to protect our planet—God's magnificent gift to us."