Visit Aramean Christian refugees from Syria in Istanbul, Turkey (12 February 2013)
On 12 February 2013, the chairman of the Swiss Federation, Mr. Melki Toprak, visited Aramean Christian refugees from Syria in Istanbul, Turkey, together with Mr. Turgay Altinisik. The latter is board member of the Committee for Refugees, co-chaired by Mr. Kenan Gurdal and Mr. Altinisik, and which has been established by the board of the Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of Istanbul, presided over by Mr. Sait Susin.
Together, they listened to the questions and issues of the Aramean (Syriac) refugees. It turned out that everyone has different problems.
The board of the Archdiocese of Istanbul is renting a building (hotel) which offers place for 40-50 persons. All rooms are provided with a kitchen and shower (gas, water, electricity). All expenses (rent, eating, drinking) are covered by the Archdiocese’s Board.
In the coming period, there is the need to open another place for 25 people in Kocamustafapasa, an area which is close to the Syriac Orthodox Church in Istanbul. This is a newly renovated building and also provides all the basic daily needs.
The Board of the Archdiocese has acknowledged the need of the refugees in Istanbul and therefore established the said Committee for Refugees. Just like the board of the Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of Istanbul, this Committee for Refugees is closely cooperating with the World Council of Arameans (Syriacs) to coordinate all kinds of assistance in Turkey to Aramean Christians from Syria.
