Türkiye has criticised Greece over events and statements on Tuesday, May 19, related to the Pontus claims, urging Athens to avoid “distorting history” and instead pursue peaceful bilateral ties.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said that May 19, the day in 1919 when the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, arrived in the city of Samsun and launched the Turkish War of Independence against occupying forces, including Greece, is celebrated by the Turkish nation as the Commemoration of Ataturk, Youth, and Sports Day.
The ministry accused Greece of advancing “groundless allegations” against Türkiye through legislation adopted in 1994 over the Pontus claims, and said such narratives are unfortunately being taught in Greek schools.
“Greece should cease exploiting history for political concerns,” the statement said.
The ministry said that by reviving the unfounded Pontus allegations, Athens is trying to “cover up” its defeat from that time as well as the alleged atrocities committed during its military occupation in Anatolia.
