Erdogan: We have repatriated 13,291 historical artifacts to our country
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, speaking at the “International Archaeology Symposium” in Ankara, stated: “From 2002 to the present, we have brought back 13,291 historical artifacts to our homeland.”
He said: “As a nation, we have lived in these lands for a thousand years, and, God willing, we will remain here until the end of time.”
Erdogan noted: “Turkey ranks first in the world in both land and underwater archaeological excavations. God willing, our experts will excavate every inch of our country’s soil and then every place where Turks have set foot, meticulously documenting our cultural heritage.”
He also added: “After 86 years, we restored the Hagia Sophia Mosque to its original identity and initiated the most comprehensive restoration process in its history.”
