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<p>While we note the concern that President Erdoğan's decision to turn Hagia Sophia
into a mosque has caused internationally, the Government regards this as a sovereign
matter for Turkey. However, we would expect that Hagia Sophia - part of a UNESCO World
Heritage Site - remains accessible to all, as testament to its global cultural and
religious significance and Turkey's rich and diverse historical and cultural legacy,
and that its precious artefacts are preserved. We therefore welcome the public statements
by Turkish leaders that this historic building will continue to be accessible to people
of all faiths and nationalities, which would be consistent with the Turkish constitution's
provisions for freedom of conscience and religion for all. We strongly support all
minority groups in Turkey and encourage the Turkish authorities to safeguard their
welfare and respect their human rights.</p><p>The Government is firmly committed to
protecting religious minorities in the Middle East region and providing assistance
on the basis of need, irrespective of race, religion or ethnicity. We believe that
one of the most effective ways to tackle injustices and advocate for respect among
different religious and racial groups, is to encourage states to uphold their human
rights obligations. The UK is committed to defending Freedom of Religion or Belief
(FoRB), and promoting respect between different religious and non-religious communities.</p>
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