Pope Leo XIV, the spiritual leader of approximately 1.5 billion Catholics worldwide and the Head of State of the Vatican, is setting foot in Turkey today. The first American Pope to make an international trip since taking office will begin his visit in Ankara.
FIRST ANKARA, THEN ISTANBUL AND IZNIK
Pope Leo XIV, who will arrive in Turkey today for official contacts, will travel to Istanbul in the evening after completing his program in Ankara. The Pope will be welcomed with a ceremony by President Erdoğan in the capital. Following his meeting with Erdoğan, he is scheduled to address religious representatives and foreign mission officials.
The Pope, who will spend the first part of the day in Ankara, will depart for Istanbul in the evening. On the first day of his Istanbul visit, Friday, November 28, he will meet with bishops, priests, deacons, and spiritual representatives at the Saint Esprit Catholic Church (Cathedral of the Holy Spirit) in Harbiye. The Pope's program also includes a visit to the French Poorhouse.
Duran stated that in addition to Turkey-Vatican relations, regional and global developments, particularly the Palestinian issue, will be discussed during the meetings.
ROADS IN ANKARA TO BE CLOSED
According to information from the Ankara Police Department, the Pope will first visit Anıtkabir in the morning hours.
The statement indicated that from 09:00 until the end of the program, Anıt Street, Gençlik Street, Akdeniz Street, Spor Park Street, and all streets and avenues connecting to these routes may be closed to traffic in both directions.
The police warned drivers to use alternative routes and to pay attention to traffic signs.
News Source: 12punto
