Leo will visit Turkey from November 27 to 30, before heading to Lebanon from November 30 to December 2. He is expected to discuss the situation of Christians in the Middle East and call for peace throughout the region, according to the statement. Overseas trips are an essential part of the duties of contemporary popes, as they strengthen ties with neighboring communities and spread messages. Often, the first trips of a new pope indicate the issues he intends to focus on during his tenure.
