Pope Leo XIV finished his first trip outside the Vatican on Sunday. He spent three days in Turkey before leaving for Lebanon. The Pope’s visit happened during a time of many world conflicts. He used the trip to ask for peace in the region and to talk about important local issues.
The Pope chose these countries for their deep meaning in today’s world problems. Turkey is trying to help make peace between Russia and Ukraine. Lebanon is a country facing many difficulties and recent attacks. By going there, the Pope showed his care for the people of the Middle East.
In Turkey’s capital, Ankara, the Pope met President Erdogan. The Pope told him, "May Turkey be a source of stability." He said the world needs people who believe in dialogue. The two leaders also had a private meeting.
On the flight to Lebanon, the Pope spoke to journalists. He clearly repeated the Vatican’s support for a Palestinian state. "We see it as the only one that can offer a solution," he said about the two-state plan. This is different from the position of Israel’s government.
The Pope also talked about problems inside Turkey. He visited a cathedral in Istanbul and spoke about the importance of women and families. This topic is very sensitive in Turkey now. The country left an important agreement against violence towards women earlier this year. Many women have been killed, so the Pope’s words were very timely.
This first trip shows the new Pope wants to be involved in world diplomacy. He supports peace plans clearly and is not afraid to discuss difficult local issues.