Surb Khach church on Akhtamar Island will open for services on September 12, 2010. According to Takvim website, Van’s Governor Munir Karaoglu put an end to rumours on the matter. The Governor opposed Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Ertugrul Gunay’s words stating that the latter’s assurances on church not to be open are no more urgent.

As NEWS.am reported earlier, Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Ertugrul Gunay did not sign the application on opening of Surb Khach church on Akhtamar Island for services, underlining that it is not included in the list of churches having permission for conduction of the religious ceremonies.

A.G.