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<p>We have noted President Erdoğan's decision to turn Hagia Sophia into a mosque.
While we note the concern this action has caused internationally, the Government regards
this as a sovereign matter for Turkey. We have therefore not discussed the matter
with other countries or organisations. However, we would expect that Hagia Sophia
- part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site - remains accessible to all, as testament to
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.</p>
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