Turkey intends to open a Greek Orthodox theological seminary, that closed 38 years ago. Turkey plans to join the EU and US exerts pressure on Ankara to open a theological seminary on Halki Island, showing a respect toward the Christian minority of the country, Hurriyet informs.

Ertugrul Gunai, Minister of Culture of Turkey, stated that the Government is ready to open the theological school, however the final decision is not made yet. “The school does not conform to our educational system, however we can elaborate another formula. In this regard there are no political problems,” stated the Minister and added that the problems might only of a technical nature.

The age-old seminary was closed in 1971, depriving an Eastern Orthodox Church of the opportunity to teach and educate the clergy since Byzantine Empire. Gunai stated, the reason of the seminary close up was not only non-conformity to the local educational system, but mainly tensed relations with Cyprus. Nonetheless, he says “the past is already a past. Presently, we have to dialogue newly.”