Greece reacts to Turkish Foreign Ministry statement on Greek Pontian genocide

·

Athens has accused Ankara of trying to “fabricate history” after the Turkish Foreign Ministry issued a statement denouncing comments by the Greek political class on the anniversary of the Greek Pontian genocide.

A war of words:

To mark the anniversary of the Greek Pontian genocide on May 19, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis released a statement which read: “A century ago, the Pontian Greeks became the victims of an unprecedented atrocity. They were persecuted, displaced, and exterminated. Those who survived left behind their ancestral homes to rise up again in the motherland.”

However, the Turkish Foreign Ministry was quick to slam the Greek government with its own statement reading: “On such a day, the baseless and delirious statements made by the Greek parliament and institutions under the pretext of marking the anniversary of May 19, 1919 does not accord with historical facts or values of the 21st century. It is another proof that irresponsible politicians and radicals are trying to reverse history today.”

This is not the first time Turkey has issued such a denial of the Greek Pontian genocide. In fact, Turkey has inexplicably denied it committed a systematic genocide against its Pontian, Armenian and Assyrian minorities for almost 90 years – despite hundreds of books by genocide scholars, tons of archival documents, eyewitness accounts and diplomatic reports saying otherwise.

Hence, it’s no surprise that the Greek Foreign Ministry had the final say, with the release of a statement on Wednesday accusing Turkey of “fabricating history” and offering some well-meaning advice.

“Historical truth, self-criticism and the forsaking of revisionism are conditions for [holding] a well-meaning dialogue and fighting the extremities of nationalism, for the reconciliation of people and states and their peaceful coexistence.”

There has been no response yet from the Turkish Foreign Ministry.

Cretan Convention - Web Banner

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

From Metallica to Maritime: The many lives of Greek shipping tycoon Harry Vafias

Though Greek shipping tycoon, Harry Vafias, spends much time working, it certainly isn't a case of 'all work and no play.’

‘I want them to know their word matters’: Peter Georgiou stands against gender violence

Peter Georgiou, a real estate agent from Rushcutters Bay and father of four-year-old twins Leila and Lola, believes change begins at home.

Thessaloniki’s Byzantine walls to shine with new light project

Thessaloniki’s iconic Byzantine Walls are set to be illuminated under a major cultural initiative announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Greek World Heritage Cities face rising climate threats

Iconic Greek cities—Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes, and Patmos—face serious climate threats, according to a new UNESCO-backed report.

Are apps like Duolingo enough to learn Greek, or do we need a tutor?

For many people who want to learn conversational Greek, an app, can be a very useful addition to your program.

You May Also Like

Ange Postecoglou’s migration story and how football bonded him with his Greek dad

Greek Australian football manager, Ange Postecoglou, details his migration story and how football bonded him with his Greek dad.

Landlord Margarita Constanti Salamakis taken to court as bakery owner fights eviction

Margarita Constanti Salamakis is facing legal action in NSW Supreme Court after issuing an eviction notice to Marrickville bakery Miss Sina.

Peter Poulos sworn in as newest NSW Legislative Council Member

Present in the gallery for his induction were members of Mr Poulos’ family, who watched on as he signed the Roll of the House.