An out-of-court deal with Egypt ends a long legal battle and, for the first time, secures the monastery’s property and rights under Egyptian law

In a statement, Symeon said the deal would be signed in the near future “as soon as my health permits"

Greek FM Gerapetritis holds talks with Egyptian counterpart and Jerusalem patriarch as divided brotherhood faces pressure to approve Sinai Monastery deal by Oct. 22

George Gerapetritis and His Beatitude Theophilos III, Patriarch of Jerusalem and All Palestine, discussed the protection of Christian communities in the Middle East and reaffirmed their close ties

10-year framework provides one million euros annually for the preservation, restoration and documentation of the Patriarchate’s religious and cultural heritage