QA-55, 17 September 2019, Statement of the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Hami Aksoy, in Response to a Question Regarding the Flag Crisis in a Match Between Muratpaşa Belediye Spor-PAOK Handball Teams

Republic Of Türkiye Ministry Of Foreign Affairs 17.09.2019

The incident that took place during the handball game between Muratpaşa Belediye Spor and PAOK in Thessaloniki on 13 September 2019 has once again shown the ugly face of extreme nationalist and fanatic circles against Turkey in Greece.

We in no way accept that the hoisting of a Turkish flag was prevented, despite the presence of a Greek flag in the arena, contrary to the decisions previously taken by the two teams in order to avoid tensions during the game.

We urge once again the relevant authorities of Greece to take all necessary measures to ban xenophobic and violent fans from sports events.

Atatürk

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