Turkey: Statement by the High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell on the decision regarding Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia has a strong symbolic, historical and universal value. Turkey has developed a well-established tradition of cultural conservation as well as a recognised tradition of intellectual and cultural openness. The ruling by the Turkish Council of State to overturn one of modern Turkey's landmark decisions and President Erdoğan‘s decision to place the monument under the management of the Religious Affairs Presidency, is regrettable. As a founding member of the Alliance of Civilisations, Turkey has committed to the promotion of inter-religious and inter-cultural dialogue and to fostering of tolerance and co-existence.
CONTACT DETAILS
Peter
Stano
Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
peter.stano@ec.europa.eu
+32 (0)460 75 45 53
Zoi
Muletier
Press Officer for Neighbourhood and Enlargement/Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
zoi.muletier@ec.europa.eu
+32 (0)2 29-94306
+32 (0)460794306