“We are starting to wonder what purpose is served by this insistence on groundless rumors. The Prime Minister of Greece was crystal clear and categorical in his talks with Mr. Erdogan on this subject. Greece is a country that has itself been hit by terrorism, and for this reason is very sensitive to terrorism, confronting it dynamically and with resolve. Its positions are clear and founded on respect for the implementation international conventions and the principles of international law. But the treatment of suspects – even in the case of acts of terrorism – takes place within the framework of law and order and with respect for the separation of powers, which is a basic principle at the foundation of all European democracies.
Matters concerning the election of the Ecumenical Patriarch are regulated by the Church itself, based on age-old Regulations and traditions.
The principle of equality before the law is implemented unswervingly by the Greek State regarding the issues of the Muslim minority in Thrace.
It is to be noted that, though it is not a matter of mutuality, the reopening of the Halki Seminary will be an indication of respect for human rights and religious freedoms, and a message of good intentions.
The government’s decision to open a mosque in Athens is under implementation and is proof of respect for the religious sentiments of our Moslem fellow human beings. And it could be no different in a country that gave birth to and developed the values of democracy and respect for the individual.
Greece is model of long-term harmonious coexistence of citizens of different faiths and an example to the countries of our region.
At the recent Greek-Turkish High-Level Cooperation Council, we laid the foundations for the deepening of our cooperation in many sectors. Greece’s stance will continue to be determined by sincerity, good faith and honest diplomacy.”
March 30, 2013