STOCKHOLM
Assyrians in Sweden have said the number of Assyrian returnees from Sweden, who had left their hometown of Mardin Midyat, in southeastern Turkey, would increase in case the atmosphere of peace was secured and acts of terrorism ended in Turkey.
Fuad Adis, chairman of Mor Afren Assyrian Orthodox Church, and Anter Anter, officer of Youth Branches and Culture Committee, told AA on Friday, "Assyrians are continuing to keep their ties with Turkey fresh as we have no problem with the Republic of Turkey and we visit Turkey at any time we want."
Adis and Anter also added, "However, we have several demands. We, as Assyrians, reclaim the land of the Monastery of Mor Gabriel in Mardin province. Also, like in Sweden, we want to open a new place of worship easily at any time we want in Mardin. When this possibility is presented to us we find the opportunity to live happier in our own land."
Adis and Anter stated they were pleased with Turkish President Abdullah Gul's upcoming visit in Sweden and they already said "Welcome" to the president.
They said, "We also learned about the visit of Yusuf Cetin, Assyrian Metropolitan Bishop, to Sweden in the president's entourage. However, the metropolitan should not interfere in politics. We couldn't understand it. He used to come and visit us in Sweden. Our relationship is very good. However, he didn't notice us about his visit this time, we were surprised. We wish he had told us, so we could have welcomed him and made preparations. At least, he could have consulted us."
Assyrians are Christian Syrians. Approximately 12,000 Assyrian citizens emigrated to Sweden in the late 1970s.
Today, Sweden is the country with highest Assyrian society. Nearly, 120 thousand Assyrians are living in the country and 30 percent of the population of Sodertaelje, in eastern Sweden, are Assyrians.
Assyrians in Sweden are trying to maintain their customs and traditions.
