Bartholomeos: All Problems To Be Examined With Good Will And Positive Approach

ANKARA - Istanbul Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomeos said on Friday that he explained the problems of Greek Orthodox community and Greek Orthodox Patriarchate to Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul, adding that all problems would be examined with good will and within a positive approach.
Lawyers of the patriarchate, who also participated in the meeting, gave information about assets of foundations and title deed registration, and replied questions of Gul.
Responding to questions of journalists after his meeting with Abdullah Gul in Foreign Ministry, Bartholomeos said that he asked Gul for an appointment to explain the difficulties of the Greek Orthodox community and the Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate.
Bartholomeos said that they were earlier scheduled to meet in Istanbul, but that meeting was postponed at the last moment due to intensive schedule of Foreign Minister Gul.
''They welcomed us in a very warm atmosphere,'' said Bartholomeos, adding that they explained the problems both verbally and in written form.
''Certain questions were also asked to us, we replied to them. Mr. Gul gave us information about the general attitude and general approach of their party and the government, and he explained their attitude about the problems of minorities. They told us that necessary things would be done about the issues on which we dwelled. They told us that they wanted all citizens to live in peace and happiness irrespective of their religions and origins and reiterated that the studies of the government were in the same direction. We are very pleased and grateful,'' Bartholomeos said.
When asked why he came with his lawyers to meet with Foreign Minister Gul, Bartholomeos said that certain problems were legal and that he could not make the necessary explanation due to that reason.
When asked if the issue of reopening Heybeliada seminary was among the issues which he conveyed to Gul, Bartholomeos said that they also discussed this issue during the meeting and that they wanted the reopening of the seminary.

(Öª-AÖ) 08.08.2003