Ankara: Trkiye on Saturday marked the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, commemorating victims of the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks and calling for stronger global action against intolerance and discrimination targeting Muslims.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Turkish Foreign Ministry issued a statement on social media platform NSosyal, observing the seventh anniversary of the March 15, 2019, terrorist attack in Christchurch, New Zealand, with respect for the victims. The attack, which is New Zealand's deadliest-ever mass shooting, resulted in the deaths of 51 victims and injuries to 40 others at the Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre.

The ministry recalled that 51 people, including a Turkish citizen, were killed in the attack on two mosques in Christchurch, describing the incident as a heinous act of terrorism. The statement paid tribute to those who lost their lives, expressing respect and prayers for them.

The ministry emphasized the need for the international community to adopt a firm and unified stance against intolerance, discrimination, and violence targeting Muslims worldwide. It highlighted that the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, observed on March 15, serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to confront crimes against human dignity.

Trkiye reiterated its commitment to contributing to international cooperation in the fight against all forms of racism and discrimination. The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution by consensus in 2022, declaring March 15 as International Day to Combat Islamophobia.