Pledge to protect minorities

Turkey’s Head of Government has promised to ensure full equal rights for non-Muslim religious minorities, but warned that “Islamophobia” in Western Europe could impede concessions, writes Jonathan Luxmoore.

“The rights of all our citizens and their beliefs are sacred to us,” said Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu. “However, people of all faiths also have to stand up against Islamophobia, given the anti-Islamic incidents now occurring, especially in Germany and Sweden. This means raising our voices against all discrimination.”

The premier was hosting a New Year lunch meeting in Istanbul with minority leaders.