Press releases

25 April 2008, STATEMENT OF THE SPOKESMAN OF THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF TURKEY IN RESPONSE TO A QUESTION (Unofficial Translation)

Several reports were observed in today`s (25 April) press to the effect that at an official ceremony held in the capital of Armenia, Erivan, on 24 April 2008, the Turkish flag was laid on the ground and trampled upon by the participants in the event, and that the day before the Turkish flag was burned during a demonstration also in Erivan.

In these reports there is also mention of public officials having carried out the act in question.

The Turkish flag in essence symbolizes all the fundamental values and beliefs of the Turkish nation from history to now, its freedom. In this respect, it is considered to be synonymical with in a sense the existence of the Turkish nation. The significance attributed by the Turkish nation to these values and to her flag which reflects them is well known by everyone. Therefore, the mentioned reports have given rise to strong resentment, reaction and indignation in our people.

We strongly condemn this behaviour and actions.”


Republic of Turkey - Ministry of Foreign Affairs