Pope Francis briefly spoke to journalists prior to landing at the Turkish capital of Ankara. According to Vatican Radio, the Pope greeted and thanked them for their “company during this journey.”
“Your work is a support, a help and also a service for the world, reporting on this religious and humanitarian activity,” he said.
The Pope praised Turkey’s aid to refugees from Syria and Iraq, which has been ravaged by the growing threat of the Islamic State. Turkey shares a border with both countries.
Before heading back to his seat, Pope Francis once again thanked them for their work. “We’ll meet again on our return for the press conference. Many thanks and have a good trip,” he said.
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On ZENIT’s website
To read the full text of the Pope’s greeting, go to:
http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/pope-s-greeting-to-journalists-aboard-flight-to-ankara
