Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Ertugrul Gunay did not sign the application on opening of Surb Khach church on Akhtamar Island for services.

According to Turkish Milliyet daily, Gunay stated that the church will not be open for the services and cross will not be placed on the top, as Surb Khach is not included in the list of churches having permission for conduction of the like ceremonies.

NEWS.am recalls that about a month ago Van Mayor (city in Turkey) Munir Karaoglu informed that jointly with Ministry of culture they have done all due paper work for church reopening. The Mayor announced September 12, 2010 a date of possible reopening and invited Armenians to come for a visit.

A.G.