The Pope in Turkey

Before leaving Turkey, Benedict XVI celebrated mass in the Catholic cathedral and once again raised ties with Islam. By our special correspondent.

Commitment to ecumenism was reaffirmed in a joint declaration to strengthen Europe's Christian roots and to proclaim the Gospel in a secularized world. There was an appeal for religious freedom across the world. Protests are taking place here and there in Turkey but without much success. By our special correspondent.

The second stage of the apostolic voyage of Benedict XVI to Turkey. He met the small Catholic community near Mary's House, venerated by both Christians and Muslims. And he recalled Don Andrea Santoro. By our special correspondent.

On the first day of his trip to Turkey, Benedict XVI expresses esteem and respect for Islam whilst demanding respect for freedom of religion. He says that the dialogue between Turkey and Europe is good and calls on the international community to commit itself to ending the conflict in the Middle East. By our special correspondent.

Christians must travel for 18 hours to participate in mass with Benedict XVI in Ephesus. The pontiff's words in yesterday's Angelus about the "dear Turkish people" have been described by the media as a "warm and friendly message".

The main, ecumenical reason for the visit – seeing Bartholomew I – has been taken over by the problem of ties between the West and Islam. The comfort the pope will give the small Christian communities is important, and they hope his advent will mean more religious freedom. There will be the protection of John XXIII, known as the "Turkish pope". From our special correspondent.

Every day, the nationalist press looks for excuses to make it seem as if the papal visit is annoying even for those people who are not against it. According to a survey, only 10% of Turks approve the pope's visit, 38% are decidedly against while another 38% are indifferent. And 14% preferred not to express their opinion. But now Erdogan says he will do all he can to meet Benedict XVI on 30 November.