Thrace: Greece and Türkiye exchange statements over mufti appointments
Athens cites the 2022 framework and rejects Turkish criticism. Ankara calls for recognition of the muftis it describes as elected by the minority.
Greece and Türkiye exchanged new official statements over mufti offices in Thrace on 24 October 2026. Greece’s Foreign Ministry responded to an announcement from Ankara and remarks by Turkish officials.
The Greek position
Athens stresses that the Muslim minority consists of Greek citizens and forms part of Greek society. It cites Law 4964/2022 and describes the selection process as participatory, involving minority members and women.
The ministry rejects Turkish criticism concerning religious freedom and describes it as interference in domestic affairs. These assessments are attributed to the Greek government.
Ankara’s position
In statement No. 207 issued the same day, Türkiye’s Foreign Ministry criticises appointments in Komotini and Xanthi. It asks Greece to recognise the muftis Ankara describes as elected by the minority, invoking religious freedom and international commitments.
Statements, rather than new legislation
These are different diplomatic positions and conflicting claims. The announcements are not accompanied by a new legislative act, court judgment or bilateral agreement. Citing the 2022 law does not announce a new framework on 24 October.
English translation of the Greek edition · Read in Greek