Statement from the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople regarding Bartholomew's visit to President Erdoğan

In a statement issued by the Patriarchate, it was noted that President Erdoğan received Patriarch Bartholomew at the Presidential Complex and that the meeting lasted approximately half an hour.

The statement recorded that Patriarch Bartholomew discussed the situation of Christians in Syria with President Erdoğan, mentioned the historical ties between them and the Patriarchate of Antioch, and requested support for ensuring the safety of all minorities in Syria.

It was emphasized in the statement that Bartholomew thanked President Erdoğan for initiating efforts toward the potential reopening of the Halki Seminary, and it was conveyed that he also requested assistance in accelerating the procedures.

The statement included information that the First Council of Nicaea, the 1700th anniversary of which will be celebrated in 2025, was also on the agenda during the meeting, and that Pope Francis's planned visit to Turkey to attend the celebrations was discussed.

It was reported that Patriarch Bartholomew was accompanied at the reception by the Greek Orthodox Metropolitan of Chalcedon, Emmanuel Adamakis, and Laki Vingas, one of the prominent figures of the Greek community.

News Source: AA