Egypt Reassures Greece on Saint Catherine’s Monastery After Court Ruling

08:34 30/5/2025 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

Egypt’s government moved to assuage concerns over the status of the historic Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai, clarifying that a recent court ruling does not alter its religious, cultural, or legal standing.

The clarification follows a local court decision earlier this week that sparked speculation in Athens about a possible shift

in long-standing agreements protecting the Greek Orthodox monastery and its associated land.

Responding to the controversy, Egypt’s Foreign Ministry stated there is “absolutely no damage” to the monastery’s integrity, including its archaeological grounds, religious function, or burial sites. The ministry emphasized that the ruling upholds the monastery’s legal status for the first time.

In a statement, the office of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s “full commitment” to preserving the monastery’s sacred status and preventing any violation of its unique religious character.

The presidential statement also linked the ruling to the recent understanding reached between Egypt and Greece during the May 7 High Council of Cooperation in Athens, where Mr. el-Sisi assured Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Egypt’s dedication to protecting the site.

Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis spoke directly with his Egyptian counterpart following the court ruling. Mr. Gerapetritis reaffirmed that “there is no room for deviation” from the mutual understanding expressed by both leaders in Athens. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis also stressed that Greece expects the formal agreement — reflecting the leaders’ commitments — to be signed without delay.

“From the Greek side, we do not anticipate any change to what has already been agreed,” Mr. Marinakis said.

The court ruling concerns land in remote natural reserve areas outside the core monastic complex.

According to Egyptian officials, these areas are uninhabited and lack any proven ownership, thus considered state property. However, the decision affirms the monks’ continued use of the monastery’s religious and archaeological spaces.

Egyptian officials also warned against misinterpretations and stressed the need for accuracy.

“The government of President el-Sisi places utmost importance on ensuring that the deep, historic, and fraternal relations between Egypt and the friendly state of Greece remain unharmed,” the foreign ministry said.

Founded in the 6th century, Saint Catherine’s Monastery is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world and holds UNESCO World Heritage status. It is widely regarded as a symbol of Greek Orthodox heritage and interfaith coexistence in the region.

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Egypt Reassures Greece,Saint Catherine’s Monastery After Court Ruling