Pope Leo XIV Arrives in Türkiye
Pope Leo XIV began his first international trip with high-level meetings in Ankara, marking the start of a three-day visit that will continue in Istanbul and İznik.
Pope Leo XIV, the head of the Vatican State and spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, arrived in Ankara at the invitation of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Welcomed at Esenboğa Airport by Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, the Pope launched his Türkiye program with a visit to Anıtkabir before heading to the Presidential Complex for official talks. The ITA Airways aircraft carrying the Pope became one of the most-tracked flights on Flightradar24 shortly after takeoff from Rome.
Diplomatic meetings in Ankara
During his Ankara stop, Pope Leo XIV held bilateral and delegation-level meetings with President Erdoğan. The discussions focused on Türkiye–Vatican relations, the situation in the Middle East, and global peace efforts. The Pope also visited the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet), where he met with President Safi Arpaguş.
Erdoğan emphasizes justice and peace
Following the talks, President Erdoğan delivered messages on rising Islamophobia, global tensions, and humanitarian crises. Highlighting Türkiye’s role as a bridge between civilizations, Erdoğan stated that the meeting underscored “a shared commitment to peace, justice, and human dignity.”
Pope’s message: Christians are part of Turkish identity
Pope Leo XIV emphasized Türkiye’s unique position between East and West, noting that Christian communities feel themselves an integral part of the country’s social fabric. He warned against escalating global conflicts and called for dialogue, solidarity, and cooperation to protect humanity’s future.
Next stops: Istanbul and İznik
The Pope will continue his visit in Istanbul, meeting clergy at Saint Esprit Catholic Church before visiting the French Hospice. On Friday, he will travel to İznik to lead a religious ceremony as part of the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea.
Closed-door meeting at the Diyanet
Pope Leo XIV’s meeting at the Presidency of Religious Affairs was held behind closed doors. Senior Diyanet officials, including members of the High Council of Religious Affairs, attended the session.
