ISTANBUL

Türkiye welcomed the UN General Assembly's resolution that deplores all acts of violence against holy books as a violation of international law, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.

“We welcome the decision of the UN General Assembly, which took place on July 25, 2023, to consider any form of violence against sacred books as a violation of international law, and we are pleased that our country is also a co-sponsor of this resolution.”

It added this resolution holds particular significance in light of recent incidents in Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands, where police protection was granted for the burning of copies of the holy Quran.

"These hate crimes that deeply offend billions of Muslims require the resolute and united action of the international community."

Türkiye will continue to fulfill its responsibilities in combating Islamophobia, it said.

The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution Tuesday that deplores all acts of violence against holy books as a violation of international law.

It comes in the wake of multiple burnings and desecrations of the holy Quran in European countries, including a recent Quran burning incident in front of a mosque in Sweden, drawing international outrage.

Muslim leaders and politicians have stressed that such desecrations and provocations are not covered by freedom of expression laws.

The 193-member General Assembly adopted the resolution drafted by Morocco by consensus.