U.S. State Dept: Hagia Sophia is a symbol of peaceful coexistence

US Department of State. Photo: romfea

According to the annual Report on International Religious Freedom by the US Department of State, Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is a symbol of peaceful coexistence between religions, according to the Greek edition Romfea.

The report highlights that “senior US government officials publicly and privately communicate their opinion to Turkish officials that Hagia Sophia is a monument of paramount importance”, and its status should be reserved in compliance with history and multiculturalism.

The US Department of State "reiterated that Hagia Sophia is a symbol of peaceful coexistence, true dialogue and respect between religions."

In addition, according to the report, “Foreign Secretary Mike Pompeo and other senior US government officials continue to urge Turkish government officials to open a Greek Orthodox theological school in Halki and allow all religious communities to receive education in the country.”

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that in the opinion of the Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias, Turkey’s intentions to convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque are petty and senseless.

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