Foreign Ministry calls on Greece to avoid hostility over history
Türkiye has criticized Greece over events and statements linked to Pontus claims on May 19, urging Athens to avoid what it called the distortion of history and to focus on peaceful bilateral ties.
In a statement, the Foreign Ministry said May 19 marked the day in 1919 when Mustafa Kemal Atatürk arrived in Samsun and launched the War of Independence, and is celebrated in Türkiye as Atatürk Commemoration, Youth and Sports Day.
The ministry accused Greece of promoting “groundless allegations” against Türkiye through legislation adopted in 1994 and said such narratives were also being taught in Greek schools.
“Greece should cease exploiting history for political concerns,” the ministry said.
