The challenges posed by religious minorities in Turkey are recorded in the State Department's annual report on religious freedom around the world. Among the most important issues presented are the difficulties in opening or operating places of worship and the resolution of property disputes related to government expropriations that have taken place in church areas and real estate.
Symbol of peaceful coexistence and respect
The report notes that senior US government officials have continued to publicly and privately express to Turkish officials their view that the Hagia Sophia wants to be a monument of exceptional importance, supporting its preservation in a way that respects and is in line with multiculturalism. of history.
The US officials said they "stressed the importance of the issue with government officials (in Turkey) and stressed that Hagia Sophia is a symbol of peaceful coexistence, real dialogue and respect between religions".
Call for reopening of the Theological School of Halki
According to the report, "Foreign Minister Mike Pompeo and other senior government officials have continued to urge government officials (Turkey) to reopen the Greek Orthodox Theological School in Halki and allow all religious communities to be educated." in the country".
Source: Kathimerini.gr