Biden calls on Erdogan to reverse decision to turn Hagia Sophia into mosque

Joe Biden and Patriarch Bartholomew. Photo: twitter.com/molodyko

U.S. presidential candidate from the Democratic Party Joe Biden called on Turkish President Recep Erdogan to reverse his decision to turn the Hagia Sophia from a museum into a mosque, reports “The National Herald”.

According to Biden, “the Hagia Sophia is an architectural marvel and treasured holy site for people of many faiths. For the last 85 years, the Hagia Sophia has been a museum, allowing people from around the world to visit, admire, and pray in this holy space, which since 1985 has also had the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site”.

The Democratic presidential nominee wrote that he deeply regretted the Turkish government’s decision to convert the Hagia Sophia into a mosque and urged Turkish President Recep Erdogan to reverse his decision and instead “keep this treasured place in its current status as a museum, ensuring equal access for all”.

As reported earlier, The U.S. Department of State is disappointed with Turkey’s decision to change the museum status of the Hagia Sophia.

 

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