Ankara and Beirut, December 02, 2025
Pope Leo XIV embarked on his first foreign apostolic journey from November 27 to December 2, 2025, traveling to Turkey and Lebanon to deliver direct messages promoting peace amid ongoing global conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Gaza conflict. His public discourse marks a distinct shift from his previously reserved demeanor towards outspoken diplomatic engagement.
First Apostolic Journey and Strategic Locations
This trip represents Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural foreign engagement since his election in May 2025. Beginning in Ankara, Turkey’s political capital, and continuing to Beirut, Lebanon, the journey placed the Pope at the heart of volatile geopolitical landscapes and religious crossroads. The timing and destinations underscored the Vatican’s intention to leverage its moral authority in urgent conflict zones.
Direct Dialogue with Political Leadership
In Ankara, Pope Leo XIV met with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, where he explicitly addressed the conflicts destabilizing Eastern Europe and the Middle East. His open condemnation and appeal for peace contrasted with his earlier reputation as a “quiet man,” demonstrating a decisive pivot towards vocal advocacy on pressing international crises.
Ecumenical and Interfaith Initiatives
As part of his efforts to foster Christian unity and broader interfaith dialogue, the Pope participated in an ecumenical prayer service alongside Bartholomew, the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople. This event commemorated the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, symbolizing a renewed commitment to religious reconciliation during times of division.
Symbolic Religious Engagements in Lebanon
Further emphasizing solidarity across religious communities, the Pope visited the tomb of Saint Charbel Makhlouf and the Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon. These visits were carefully chosen to reinforce messages of peace, hope, and mutual respect amidst Lebanon’s complex social fabric and regional tensions.
Significance and Shift in Papal Diplomacy
Pope Leo XIV’s vocal stance during this tour signals a transformation in the Vatican’s approach to international diplomacy. Moving away from a traditionally cautious posture, he is actively positioning the papacy as an influential actor addressing contemporary conflicts through both spiritual leadership and direct political dialogue.
The Pope’s first foreign trip thus sets a precedent for the Holy See’s engagement with critical global issues, reflecting a renewed urgency to advocate for peace and stability in a fractious world stage.