We are saddened to learn that Çelebi Sultan Mehmet Mosque in Didymoteicho-Greece, built in 1420, and restoration of which was started in 2016 by the Greek authorities, was severely damaged as a result of a fire which broke out in the early hours of 22 March. We expect the Greek authorities to determine the cause of the fire.

It is of great importance that the Çelebi Sultan Mehmet Mosque, which is one of the most distinguished examples of our common cultural heritage with Greece, be restored to its original form and preserved for future generations.

Our common resolve to mutually preserve the cultural properties in Turkey and Greece has also been reflected in the documents signed during the High-Level Cooperation Council (HLCC) Meetings between Turkey and Greece.

In line with this common will, Turkey is ready to contribute by all means to the restoration and preservation of the Çelebi Sultan Mehmet Mosque, a unique architectural monument.