Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden has expressed regret over the conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque, saying he has asked Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to reverse his decision.
“The Hagia Sophia is an architectural marvel and a treasured holy site for people of many faiths. For the last 85 years, the Hagia Sophia has been a museum, allowing people from all over the world to visit, admire, and pray in this holy place, which since 1985 has also had the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“I deeply regret the Turkish government’s decision to convert the Hagia Sophia into a mosque and urge Turkish President Recep Erdogan to reverse his decision and instead keep this treasured place in its current status as a museum, ensuring equal access for all,” said Joe Biden.