Reminding that Turkey’s President yesterday issued a decree to reinstate the Hagia Sophia’s legal status as a place of worship after 86 years, Altun underlined that the decision will enable Muslims from around the world to pray at the Hagia Sophia, which holds so much history and meaning.

He also added that people of all religious denominations are welcome and encouraged to visit it – just as they have been able to visit other mosques, including the Blue Mosque.

“Hagia Sophia’s reinstatement is a victory for religious freedom. Under the President’s leadership, Turkey repaired the Akdamar Church in Van and the Great Synagogue of Edirne, among other symbols of our history. We will continue to preserve and celebrate our cultural heritage,” Altun concluded. (ILKHA)