AK Parti Vice Chairman and Chairman of Foreign Affairs Zafer Sırakaya shared a message on his social media accounts on the 572nd anniversary of the Conquest of Istanbul.

In his message posted on his social media accounts, Sırakaya emphasised that “The Conquest of Istanbul was not just a victory in battle, but a civilisation’s lasting imprint on the world.” and added:

572 years ago today, marks the great victory that was the cause of one era closing and another beginning: the Conquest of Istanbul.

The Conquest of Istanbul was not just a victory in battle, but a civilisation’s lasting imprint on the world.

With the determination, faith, and foresight of Fatih Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, not only a city, but the very heart of a civilisation was conquered.

And one of the most sacred symbolisations of this conquest was Hagia Sophia.

Hagia Sophia is not merely a place of worship; it symbolises the spirit of conquest, independence, and a representation of our civilisation.

Reopening Hagia Sophia as a place of worship and breaking it free from its chains is both a tribute to not only our history but that of our ancestors and the victory representing the will of our nation.

On the anniversary of the Conquest of Istanbul, the apple of our nations eye, I remember with mercy and gratitude Fatih Sultan Mehmet, the Conqueror, who was blessed with the glad tidings of our Prophet (PBUH), and all our ancestors.

I extend, on behalf of our noble nation, our deepest appreciations to our President and Party Chairman, H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who was able to break Hagia Sophia free from its chains and allow it to once again be a place of worship.