According to information released by the German Catholic News Agency (RNA) and Deutsche Welle, Angela Merkel was outraged by public statements made by Turkish PM Recep Tayip Erdogan to turn the emblematic monument of Christianity into a mosque.

Ms. Merkel, according to the same sources, characterized these intentions as unnacceptable.

The spokesperson of the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sawsan Chebli, said at a press briefing taking place at the same time  that “all were pleased by the present regime of the monument as a museum,” but at the same time she reassured that “the final decision belongs to Turkey.”

Opposition to the Turkish PM’s intentions was also voiced by the co-chairman of the Green party, Cem Özdemir, who is of Turkish origin. He stated to Deutsche Welle:
“I cannot comprehend the meaning of such an intent. Turkey is not lacking in mosques, to the contrary. It’s probably a gesture to demean Christians, and all minorities in Turkey. Turning Hagia Sophia into a museum by Kemal Ataturk was, in my opinion, a smart and correct measure that should remain in effect. If it is to be opened to religious practice, then it should not just be for Muslims, but the Patriarch should also have the ability to conduct services there.”