Greek government launches international initiative for Hagia Sophia

·

The ministers of Foreign Affairs and Culture, Nikos Dendias and Lina Mendoni, have agreed to the creation of a small working group which will, within 10 days, propose a specific action plan to raise awareness within the international community about Turkey’s conversion of Hagia Sophia to a mosque.

“We have repeatedly stressed that the conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque does not constitute a Greek-Turkish difference. However, of course, for us Greeks, this monument is of special importance and value,” Dendias said.

“For this reason, we have decided to raise the issue through international initiatives that we will undertake, as European citizens and as citizens of the world community, talking to all international organisations and, of course, UNESCO.”

RELATED: Iconic Hagia Sophia to be turned back into a mosque.

The meeting was also attended by Greek Ambassador to UNESCO Maria Diamantopoulou, the chair of the Greek National Commission for UNESCO Ekaterini Tzitzikosta and other officials.

Turkey changed the status of the 6th century monument, a UNESCO World heritage Site, earlier in the month and prayers are scheduled to be read there on Friday. 

The conversion of the former Greek Orthodox cathedral into a mosque has drawn worldwide condemnation. 

RELATED: Australia’s Greek organisations denounce conversion of Hagia Sophia into mosque.

Source: Ekathimerini.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

The man for all jobs: How a Greek migrant turned setbacks into 7-figure success

When Christof Mantzanas stepped off the plane in Melbourne on 10 March 2015, he had just $1,000 in his pocket.

Jimmy’s Kitchen brings authentic Greek hospitality to The Rocks

Sydney diners can now experience the warmth, flavour, and soul of a traditional Greek taverna without the flight to Greece.

Greek Community of Melbourne enhances safety with defibrillator training seminar

The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) took a notable step towards enhancing community safety by organising a defibrillator training seminar.

Wills without the Trojan War

After nearly 15 years in the legal industry, I’ve lost track of how many matters I’ve worked on involving family disputes over estates.

From tech to health: Greek Australians driving innovation in 2025

Australia’s Top 100 Innovators celebrate those who turn setbacks into breakthroughs. This year, three Greek Australians are among them.

You May Also Like

Greek PM sends congratulatory letter to Anthony Albanese after election win

Greek Prime Minister extends his warm congratulations to Anthony Albanese following his re-election as Prime Minister of Australia.

Steve Georganas MP calls for a ‘just solution’ to the Cyprus issue

Members of the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association (PADEE – WHIA) have expressed their support for the Republic of Cyprus.

Former EU Commissioner says Von der Leyen should have reacted to chair snub

Former EU Commissioner minister Anna Diamantopoulou said head of the European Commission should have addressed the diplomatic mishap in Ankara