Pope Benedict XVI, on an official visit to Türkiye, addressed diplomatic mission chiefs in Ankara on Tuesday, praising the country's role as a historical bridge between East and West and between Asia and Europe.
The Pope commended Türkiye's adoption of a secular system of government, which he said had given the country the foundations of a modern state by separating civil society from religion while allowing each to function within its own sphere.
He acknowledged that Türkiye's Muslim majority shapes public life, while noting that the constitution guarantees freedom of worship and conscience to all citizens. He argued that democratic governments are obligated to protect those freedoms and allow religious communities to organize themselves.
Benedict called for genuine dialogue among religions and cultures as the best path to easing global tensions, saying religious communities must refuse to seek direct political power or endorse violence. He also praised the small Catholic community in Türkiye for its contributions to education and civic harmony.
On broader international issues, the Pope said lasting peace requires addressing economic inequality and reducing sources of conflict, and he welcomed Türkiye's efforts, along with those of other nations, to help restore stability in Lebanon.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in November 2006, in its own words.