Prime Minister of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Armenian church in Van was restored at the expense of budgetary funds.

Turkish PM responded to French MP’s question regarding rights of religious minorities following his speech in the Parliamentary Assembly of Council of Europe, writes Turkish Hurriyet newspaper.

“Last year a religious service was held in Sumela Monastery. An Armenian church in Van was restored and opened for services as well,” he said.

Surb Khach church on Akhtamar Island of Turkey was opened for once a year services in September 2010.