Pope Leo XIV praises Türkiye’s role between civilizations

Pope Leo XIV has recognized Türkiye’s significant position in both the Mediterranean region and global affairs during his inaugural foreign visit, describing the nation as a vital civilizational bridge. Speaking alongside President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at a joint address in Ankara, the pontiff noted that the logo of his journey—a bridge over the Dardanelles Strait—symbolizes Türkiye’s unique role in connecting continents and cultures. The American pope’s remarks underscored the strategic and cultural importance of a nation that has long served as a crossroads between East and West, a position consistently highlighted in Türkiye’s foreign policy and diplomatic engagements.

The pontiff specifically praised Türkiye’s internal diversity as one of its greatest assets, observing that “even before serving as a link between Asia and Europe, this bridge connects Türkiye to itself.” He emphasized that genuine civil society is built on “bridges that link its people together” at a time when many nations face increasing polarization. Pope Leo warned that “uniformity would be an impoverishment” for any society, celebrating instead the country’s varied regions and identities as a “crossroads of sensibilities” that enriches the national fabric.

The religious leader acknowledged the constructive role of Türkiye’s Christian community within the nation’s social structure. “Christians desire to contribute positively to the unity of your country,” he stated, adding that they “are, and feel part of, Turkish identity.” The pope also highlighted the enduring significance of family in Turkish society, noting that “more so than in other countries, the family retains great importance in Turkish culture,” supported by various initiatives that reinforce its central role in maintaining social cohesion.

Pope Leo placed his visit within a historical continuum, noting that four previous pontiffs had visited Türkiye and that the first eight ecumenical councils of the Catholic Church were held in what is now modern Türkiye. He specifically referenced the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea as speaking “of encounter and dialogue.” The pontiff issued a sober warning about escalating global conflicts, stating that “the future of humanity is at stake” and that current divisions risk draining resources from urgent challenges like peace, poverty reduction, and environmental protection. He pledged the Vatican’s continued cooperation with all nations committed to human dignity and development.