Turkish State Minister Cevdet Yilmaz and other officials visited Akhtamar church once arrived in Van, Cihan agency reports.
The Minister stated the region is of great importance for tourism development. Cevdet Yilmaz answered journalists“questions, mentioning that this church is vitally crucial for Armenians and looks more attractive after restoration.
“This region is a historical and cultural preservation. Tourism development is the main potential of Eastern Anatolia, that will be strongly supported in this area,” Minister said.
As to the question whether there is a possibility of services to be held in the church, Yilmaz answered that there is no analysis on the matter, and current conditions and legal status should be reviewed.
“Turkish Republic is a secular state and all religions are equally distanced from the state. That is why we have a respect for all religions and do not have any problems in this regard,” Yilmaz underlined.
While visiting Akhtamar, Minister met tourists from Armenia and spoke with them in English. Tourists said they liked the island and thanked the Minister for preserving it.
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