Pope Leo XIV has called on Turkiye to act as a force for stability and peace as he began his first foreign trip, arriving in Ankara on November 27, 2025. The pontiff emphasized the importance of dialogue and reconciliation amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
Welcomed with a military guard of honour at Ankara’s airport, Pope Leo XIV held talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and addressed the country’s diplomatic corps at the national library. He praised Turkiye’s historic role as a bridge between East and West, urging the nation to foster dialogue and stability in a conflict-riven world.
The pope’s visit highlights Turkiye’s growing diplomatic role, particularly in hosting negotiations and offering mediation in regional conflicts. His appeal for peace comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, underscoring the urgency of religious and political cooperation.
Following his engagements in Ankara and Istanbul, where he will attend ecumenical and interfaith meetings, Pope Leo XIV will continue his journey to Lebanon. The trip reflects the Vatican’s commitment to promoting unity and reconciliation across diverse faiths and regions.
