Pope is coming to Turkey: Security measures increased in that city

Pope Leo XIV, who was elected as the spiritual leader of the Catholic world six months ago, will make his first foreign trip since assuming the papacy to Turkey. The Pope will carry out his visit to Turkey between November 27-30.

As part of the visit, Pope Leo XIV will first hold official talks in Ankara, and then proceed to Istanbul and Iznik.

PATRIARCH BARTHOLOMEW WILL ALSO ACCOMPANY HIM

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople will also accompany the Pope during his Turkey program. The two will meet in Iznik on November 28 to celebrate the 1700th anniversary of the First Council, an important meeting in early Christian history.

SECURITY MEASURES INTENSIFIED

Security measures have been increased in the districts ahead of the Pope's visit. Police teams have intensified peace and security operations throughout the district. Vehicles were stopped at checkpoints, and identities, license plates, and driver's licenses were checked one by one.

While foot patrols have been increased on streets and avenues in the district center, general checks were also carried out in parks, squares, and areas where citizens are concentrated. While GBT (General Information Gathering) checks were performed on individuals deemed suspicious, information was provided to drivers and passengers. It was stated that the simultaneous inspections will continue throughout the visit.

MEETING WITH THE PRESIDENT IN ANKARA

Pope Leo XIV will meet with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara on November 27.

ISTANBUL PROGRAM

The Pope, who will move to Istanbul on November 28, will hold a closed meeting with bishops. On Saturday morning, he will visit the Blue Mosque, continuing the tradition of his predecessors.

Pope Leo will meet with Patriarch Bartholomew at the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, his other stop in Istanbul, and will sign a joint declaration following the meeting.

On the same day, the Pope will head to the Volkswagen Arena to lead a mass expected to be attended by thousands of people, where he will preside over the ceremony in person.

News Source: 12punto