Pope Leo XIV to visit Türkiye and Lebanon in first overseas trip

Pope Leo XIV will undertake his first international journey since assuming the papacy with a six-day visit to Türkiye and Lebanon scheduled for late November 2025. According to Vatican News, the pontiff's inaugural overseas trip will commence in Ankara on November 27, where he will confer with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and address Turkish government officials and civil society representatives.

Comprehensive Turkish Itinerary

The papal visit will include multiple significant engagements across Türkiye, beginning with high-level diplomatic meetings in the capital before proceeding to Istanbul. The Pope's schedule features encounters with bishops and pastoral workers, a prayer service near the archaeological remains of the Basilica of Saint Neophytos in Iznik, and a visit to Istanbul's historic Blue Mosque, underscoring the trip's interfaith dimensions.

Ecumenical Engagement in Istanbul

A highlight of the Turkish leg will be Pope Leo's meeting with Fener Greek Patriarch Bartholomew, during which the religious leaders will formalize their collaboration by signing a joint declaration. The day will culminate with a public Mass at Istanbul's Volkswagen Arena, providing an opportunity for the pontiff to engage directly with Türkiye's Catholic community and international visitors.

Lebanon Visit and Regional Significance

Following his Turkish engagements, Pope Leo will travel to Beirut for meetings with Lebanon's political leadership and addresses to civil society representatives. The selection of Türkiye and Lebanon for the Pope's first foreign visit underscores the Vatican's continued focus on Christian communities in the Middle East and its commitment to interfaith dialogue in religiously diverse nations.