In his first foreign trip since assuming office in May, Pope Leo XIV has called on Turkey to be a force for stability and understanding in a world facing significant conflict. During his address in Ankara, the pontiff cautioned against the dangers of a ‘tyranny of uniformity,’ warning that it could impoverish Turkey’s rich diversity.
Speaking to officials, members of civil society, and the diplomatic corps at the Presidential Complex, Pope Leo XIV emphasized Turkey’s unique geographical position and its multicultural and religious heritage, describing it as a ‘natural bridge between East and West, a meeting point of civilizations.’ He stressed that a single dominating viewpoint could harm Turkish society’s inherent pluralism.
‘Society thrives on diversity,’ the Pope stated, urging respect for the dignity of all residents, including women, foreigners, and those living in poverty. The papal delegation includes over 80 journalists, highlighting the media attention surrounding the new pontiff’s first international excursion. Pope Leo XIV is the first American to lead the Catholic Church in history.
On the political front, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a bilateral meeting with Pope Leo XIV at the Presidential Complex, followed by an expanded meeting with delegations including Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Erdogan praised the Pope’s stance on the Palestinian issue, expressing his hope that humanity will benefit from his first foreign visit as Catholic leader during a time of tension and uncertainty.
In his address to the Pope and political and religious leaders at the Presidential Library, President Erdogan stated, ‘We commend [Pope Leo’s] insightful stance on the Palestinian issue.’ He added, ‘We owe it to the Palestinian people to achieve justice, and the basis for this is the immediate implementation of a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders. Maintaining the historical status of Jerusalem is also of paramount importance.’ Erdogan also acknowledged Pope Leo’s calls for peace and diplomacy regarding the war in Ukraine as vital.
Pope Leo’s visit marks a significant moment in Turkish-Vatican relations, offering a platform for dialogue on pressing global challenges.
