Diyarbakir:A senior official from the Armenian church foundation in southeastern Trkiye's Diyarbakir province has expressed strong support for the ongoing normalization process between Trkiye and Armenia, emphasizing the potential for deepening friendships through increased contact.

According to Anadolu Agency, Ohannes Gafur Ohanyan, vice president of the Surp Giragos Armenian Church Foundation, voiced optimism about the rapprochement during a visit by Turkish and Armenian journalists to the historic Surp Giragos Armenian Church. This event was part of an EU-funded media tour aimed at fostering normalization between the two countries.

Ohanyan noted that the local Armenian community in Diyarbakir, although small with approximately 60 to 65 members, remains active, particularly around major religious holidays. The Surp Giragos Church, an 800-year-old structure and the largest Armenian church in the Middle East, attracts Armenians from both Armenia and the diaspora.

Trkiye and Armenia, which do not currently have diplomatic relations, have initiated a normalization process since late 2021, appointing special envoys for this purpose. There are ongoing efforts to reopen the shared border, which has been closed since 1993, with preparations for direct trade already completed.

The Surp Giragos Church underwent comprehensive restoration after being damaged during clashes in 2015 and has since reopened for worship. Additionally, restoration work on the Surp Sarkis Church, damaged in the 2023 earthquakes, is underway, with significant progress made.

Ohanyan stressed the importance of continued support from businesspeople, philanthropists, and the public to preserve these significant cultural and historical sites.