CHP's take on that photo: 'Artificial agenda'

Lyon Consul General Cemil Çağdaş Yıldırım's pose with the city's Archbishop had sparked controversy. It was noted that Yıldırım was standing one step ahead of the Archbishop and had his 'shahada' (index) finger raised.

CHP Lyon Union President Nedim Koçak also made a statement regarding the photo. Koçak argued that the photo in question was taken during the preparation phase for the shot.

"IN A SINCERE ATMOSPHERE"

Speaking to Ekol TV, CHP Lyon Union President Nedim Koçak defended the consul general at the center of the criticism with the following words:

“As the Republican People's Party Lyon Union, when we investigated the matter, we encountered information that our Consul General's visit to the Archbishop took place in a very sincere atmosphere. We received information that the photo frame was taken during the preparation for the photo shoot and that there was no image outside of diplomatic protocols. In these days when very difficult economic conditions in our country condemn millions of our people to live in very difficult circumstances, creating an agenda with such artificial issues causes great harm both to our country and to us living abroad.

In this sense, with the expectation that the parties concerned will make the necessary statements as soon as possible, we felt the need to share this with you and the public with the sentiment that each of us, seeking rights, law, and justice, can prevent injustice and disrespect toward anyone by approaching issues with accurate information.”