Pope Leo XIV in Turkey: Official Visit & Erdoğan Meeting

Pope Leo XIV Arrives in Turkey for Official Visit

Ankara, November 27, 2025

Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Ankara today for an official visit to Turkey. The aircraft carrying the head of the Roman Catholic Church landed at Esenboğa Airport, where he was welcomed by Turkey's Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy and other senior government officials.

As part of his visit, Pope Leo XIV will travel to Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Turkish Republic, to lay a wreath and pay tribute to his legacy.

"This visit holds particular significance for interfaith dialogue and the strengthening of mutual understanding between nations," Turkish officials stated.

Meetings and Agenda

During his stay, the Pope is scheduled to hold talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The leaders are expected to discuss several key topics:

• International cooperation
• Interfaith dialogue
• Cultural exchange
• Humanitarian initiatives

These discussions are viewed as an important step toward enhancing cultural and religious ties between Turkey and the Vatican, while also contributing to global efforts to promote dialogue and tolerance.

Program Highlights

In addition to the official meetings, the Pope's program includes:

• A visit to Anıtkabir Museum
• A meeting with representatives of Turkey's Christian community
• An ecumenical service
• A press conference for international media

Further details and updates on the visit will be released as the program continues.