In an interview with one of the Turkish TV channels Rober Koptas, the Editor of Agos bilingual Armenian-Turkish daily, spoke of difficulties of being an Armenian in Turkey.

He noted that his relatives called him Rober, though his passport name is Murad, as his father did not want his son to have difficulties because of his name, while serving in the army. Speaking about school years, Rober mentioned that he did not want to sing Turkey’s anthem.

According to the Agos editor, it is very difficult to be an Armenian in Turkey. The word ‘Armenian’ is used as swearing. One of his friends, who is not Armenian, was not allowed to take a taxi, as he is working for Agos newspaper, Rober stressed.  

Rober Koptas also commented on the religious service in Surb Khach church on Akhtamar Island, saying that it should remain a church, not a museum. The Agos editor stressed that he believes in sincerity of authorities’ Armenian initiatives.