Negotiations over the future of Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai are nearing a decisive stage, with Archbishop Symeon reportedly preparing to accept a proposed agreement with Egypt following consultations with senior Greek Orthodox Church officials.
According to Greek news outlet Proto Thema, Archbishop Symeon informed Egyptian officials by telephone that he intends to accept the compromise, which has been under discussion for several months. The agreement aims to resolve the dispute over the monastery’s property status and safeguard its future.
Archbishop May Confirm Acceptance in Writing
Archbishop Symeon’s illness currently prevents him from travelling to Egypt to sign the agreement in person. Instead, he is expected to send a signed letter formally confirming his acceptance, with an in-person signing to follow when his health permits.
Once the letter reaches Egyptian officials, the Greek government is expected to be informed so that the next steps can be coordinated through diplomatic channels.
Greek Church Supports the Compromise
The Holy Synod of the Hierarchy of the Church of Greece, known as the DIS, has played a key role in advancing the negotiations.
During discussions, senior Church officials examined the proposed agreement and its implications for the monastery and the interests of Hellenism. George Kallantzis, secretary-general of Greece’s Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs, also participated.
Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis has reportedly discussed the matter with his Egyptian counterpart in recent days, highlighting the diplomatic importance of reaching a settlement.
Supreme Court Decision Adds Urgency
The negotiations are taking place ahead of a decision expected from Greece’s Supreme Court, the Areios Pagos, on October 24.
According to Proto Thema, once Archbishop Symeon formally confirms his acceptance, the Greek government is expected to request a suspension of the decision through diplomatic channels.
The move would give the parties an opportunity to advance the agreement and bring the dispute closer to resolution.
Protecting a Historic Orthodox Institution
Located at the foot of Mount Sinai in Egypt, Saint Catherine’s Monastery is one of the world’s oldest continuously operating Christian monasteries and a major centre of Orthodox Christian heritage.
The dispute has focused on the monastery’s property status and its long-term future, raising concerns in Greece about the protection of its religious, historical and cultural significance.
The proposed agreement seeks to secure the monastery against future legal challenges and establish a framework for its continued operation.
With Archbishop Symeon preparing to communicate his acceptance and Greek and Egyptian officials engaged in diplomatic discussions, the negotiations have entered a crucial phase. The next steps will determine how the agreement is formalised and how the pending court proceedings are addressed.
Source: Proto Thema
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