The service was attended by members of the Turkish government and representatives from the Armenian diaspora, as well as religious leaders. Although Turkey had no official diplomatic relations with Armenia at that time, by invitation of the Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Gül, the Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Arman Kirakosian was present at the funeral.[17] Prime Minister Erdoğan was not present at the funeral, because he had to attend the scheduled inauguration of the Mount Bolu Tunnel.[18]