Patriarch Bartholomew discussed the situation in Ukraine with Joe Biden

On November 23, 2014, US Vice President Joe Biden visited the patriarchal residence in Istanbul's Phanar quarter.

Joe Biden discussed with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew the situation of the Orthodox minority in Istanbul, the problems of Christians in the Middle East, the situation in Ukraine, the coming visit of Pope Francis at Phanarat the end of November and the opening of the Theological School of Halki.

Patriarch Bartholomew thanked Joe Biden for his interest in the affairs of the Patriarchate of Constantinople.

US Vice President told reporters that he was impressed by the personality of Patriarch Bartholomew and described him as “a man who does what he says”.

After the talks,the Patriarch of Constantinople and Joe Biden made a tour of the Cathedral of St. George the Trophy-Bearer.