STORY: :: Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan praises Pope Leo's stance on the Palestinian issue after meeting him in Ankara
:: November 27, 2025
:: Ankara, Turkey
:: Turkey is a harsh critic of Israel's bombardment of Gaza, in its conflict there with Hamas
"I would like it to be known that we have always appreciated the astute stance of our esteemed guest and his predecessor, especially regarding the Palestinian issue."
"Our esteemed guest's visit comes at a critical time in the context of regional and global events. I hope and desire that this visit, which comes at a time when humanity's search for direction is accelerating, global uncertainties are increasing, and tensions are mounting from Asia to Africa, from Latin America to Eastern Europe, will be beneficial for all of humanity."
Pope Leo's calls for peace and diplomacy regarding the war in Ukraine are also very meaningful, Erdogan said.
In September, Leo met at the Vatican with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and raised the "tragic situation" in Gaza with him.
Turkey has emerged as among the harshest critics of Israel's bombardment of Gaza, in its conflict there with Palestinian militant group Hamas.
Erdogan, who has toughened his stance towards the LGBTQ community in recent years, also praised Pope Leo for what he said was his messages about protecting the family.
