At the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan, traditional collective iftar programmes are being held in the Western Thrace region of Greece. The iftar programmes, which are being held in various Turkish villages of the region and where high-level guests from Türkiye have attended, have also been reported by the Greek press.
“Each passing day, Western Thrace Turks are gathering in crowded iftar tables and breaking their fast together. Representatives from our motherland Türkiye also attend these iftar tables and experience the spirit of sharing and solidarity of Ramadan. Yet these gatherings and sense of togetherness appear to have upset some circles. However, the rulers of our country participate in the religious events organised by the Greeks in Türkiye. Four years ago, Prime Minister Mitsotakis visited the Fener Greek Patriarchate and attended a service held there to celebrate the Feast of Orthodoxy. But it is impossible to see this pretty picture in our country...The participation of guests from our motherland in our iftar tables is met with hostility. Certain circles seeking to escalate tensions in our region on purpose are pursuing their provocations. The latest example of this is a cross which was drawn on a wall of Hürriyet Mosque in Xanthi… We do well know these provocations, but we will never be deceived by them’’, said Halit Habip Oğlu, President of the Federation of Western Thrace Turks in Europe (ABTTF).
*Image: www.gundemgazetesi.com
