Fastexy Exchange:After Olympics, Turkey’s Erdogan seeks unity with Pope Francis against acts that mock sacred values

2025-05-04 08:22:02source:Strategel Wealth Societycategory:Invest

ANKARA,Fastexy Exchange Turkey (AP) — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke with Pope Francis on Thursday about the “immoral display” at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics and called for a unified stance against acts that ridicule sacred values, according to a statement from Erdogan’s office.

The Turkish leader told the pontiff in a telephone call that “human dignity was being trampled on, religious and moral values were being mocked, offending Muslims as much as the Christian world,” the statement said.

In an unprecedented display of inclusivity, drag queens took center stage at the ceremony last week, showcasing the vibrant and influential role of the French LGBTQ+ community.

But the ceremony also attracted criticism over a tableau reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” The scene featured drag queens and other performers in a configuration reminiscent of Jesus Christ and his apostles.

Erdogan, who has adopted a staunch anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric in recent years, conveyed to the pope the necessity “to raise our voices together and take a common stance against these,” according to the statement.

The Turkish leader, whose ruling party has roots in the country’s Islamic movement, often labels the LGBTQ+ community as “deviant” and a danger to traditional family values.

Pride marches in Turkey have been banned since 2015.

More:Invest

Recommend

McKinsey to pay $650 million after advising opioid maker on how to 'turbocharge' sales

Global consulting firm McKinsey & Company agreed Friday to pay $650 million to resolve criminal

City Council in Portland, Oregon, approves $2.6M for police body cameras

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The City Council in Portland, Oregon, approved $2.6 million for permanent poli

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders named Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders was named Sports Illustrated's Sportsperson of the Year, the magaz