Ankara responds to US State Dept’s statement: Sophia is Turkey’s property
Hagia Sophia Cathedral. Photo: orthodoxtimes.com
Ankara expressed its astonishment at the US Secretary of State’s statement and responded that Hagia Sophia is the property of Turkey like all cultural assets in the country, reports “Orthodox Times”.
Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hami Aksoy states that the country’s government has taken steps to protect freedom of religion and belief, noting that the Turkish constitution and legislation guarantee these freedoms for all citizens without any discrimination.
Hami Aksoy notes that Hagia Sophia is the property of Turkey like all cultural assets in the country and that it is an internal affair within Ankara’s sovereign rights.
“We are astonished by the press release issued by the U.S. Department of State on the status of the Hagia Sophia. <…> We protect meticulously all cultural properties that we own without any distinction, including Hagia Sophia, within the framework of the tradition of tolerance stemming from our culture and history.
Turkey has been delicately cherishing the historical, cultural and spiritual value of Hagia Sophia since its conquest.
On this occasion, we remind once again a reality that we have to repeat constantly. The Hagia Sophia is the property of Turkey, like all our cultural assets located on our land. Every kind of power disposition regarding Hagia Sophia is also an issue concerning our internal affairs within Turkey’s sovereignty rights,” wrote the diplomat.
As reported, the head of U.S. State Department, Mike Pompeo, urged Turkey to maintain the status of a museum for Hagia Sophia.
Read also
In the US, a leading hospital network refused to apply the new euthanasia law
The Advocate Health Care network stated that it will not participate in the assisted suicide program in the state of Illinois.
OCU activists call TRC to service of persecuted UOC community in Kremenchuk
After seizing the Holy Trinity Church in Kremenchuk, Dumenko's followers attempted to disrupt the worship service of UOC believers held in the open air.
Bila Tserkva authorities attempting to seize monastery building from UOC
The Bila Tserkva City Council is attempting to reclaim the buildings of the St. Mary Magdalene Convent for communal ownership through the courts.
Egyptian police arrest Christians targeted in Muslim attacks
Copts were released once they withdrew their complaints against their assailants.
Primate of Macedonian Church congratulates Lavra's abbot on name day
Archbishop Stefan noted the zeal of the Lavra's abbot, who shares the sorrows of his flock.
Persecuted community in Stari Broskivtsi marks patronal feast in new church
The rector thanked the faithful for building a new church to replace the one that was seized.