PACE, POLITICAL AFFAIRS AND DEMOCRACY COMMISSION MEETING

Egemen Bagıs attended the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly (PACE), Political Affairs and Democracy Commission meeting in Athens.

Turkey was also represented by PACE Turkish group chairman Reha Denemec and Republican People’s Party MP, Deniz Baykal.

Egemen Bagis informed the group about the recently revoked rights of the different faith groups in Turkey. ‘Armenian citizens in Akdamar after 112 years and Orthodox citizens in Sumela after 88 years could practise their faith freely’ said Mr Bagis in the meeting where the Freedom of religion in the Middle East was under discussion.

Egemen Bagis said $ 2 billion worth of property has been returned to the minority foundations. He also pointed that necessary steps have been taken, not just for the minorities, but also for the muslims who constitute the majority in the country, for the freedom of belief and worship.

‘Hopefully, we will witness the reopening of Heybeliada Clergy School in Istanbul and Fetih Mosque in Athens simultaneously which have previously been closed for decades.’ said Mr Bagis as he concluded his speech.