HATAY
Governor of the southern province of Hatay, Mehmet Celalettin Lekesiz and an accompanying delegation visited the Orthodox Church on Tuesday and wished all the believers a happy Christmas.
Lekesiz met with the Chairperson of the Foundation of Antakya Greek Orthodox Church Fadi Hurigil, the church's spiritual leader Jan Deluller and priest Dimitri Dogum.
Speaking at the church, Governor Lekesiz underlined that Hatay was a province in which centuries old differences co-existed in harmony.
"I believe that 1.5 million residents of Hatay have joined in the celebrations of Christmas along with our Christian citizens. I wish all Christians a merry Christmas," Lekesiz also said.
A deputy of main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) from Hatay, Mehmet Ali Ediboglu said that all religious feasts were occasions contributing to peace.
Mayor of Antakya, Lutfu Savas said that Hatay was a province in which the festivals of the monotheistic religions were celebrated.
"Such days are an important richness for Hatay," Savas stated.
Fadi Hurigil said that they were pleased to celebrate Christmas, a day highly important for their society and cultural life.
