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Press Statement by Prime Minister H.E. Bulent Ecevit Concerning Turkish Citizens of Assyrian Origin
[Unofficial Translation]
Turkish citizens of Assyrian origin who emigrated abroad on their own will as a consequence of intense terrorist activities in their region have reportedly been facing certain difficulties in returning to their homes in Turkey.
It has also been claimed that they encountered certain restrictions in their efforts to return to their villages in exercising their real property rights and in visiting their relatives. It was also reported that they were not allowed to receive religious education and that foreigners were prevented from visiting Assyrian villages.
Certain administrative errors may have been made due to misinterpretations at local level. However, instructions have been given to the local authorities to act within the law.
Constitutional, legal and democratic rights of all Turkish citizens of Assryian origin are under the full guarantee of the State.
Our dear citizens who have settled in other countries for various reasons
can return to our country and their villages without any difficulty or
restrictions.
Armenian, Assyrian and Hellenic Genocide News Archives