Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what steps he is taking with his international counterparts to ensure that Turkey complies with its (a) obligations under the rules-based international order and (b) NATO commitments.

The Turkish constitution provides for freedom of conscience and religion, regardless of an individual's citizenship. We regularly discuss with Turkey issues concerning freedom of religion and belief and encourage Turkey to live up to its international obligations. We will continue to engage the Turkish Government at all levels on these issues and to urge respect for Freedom of Religion or Belief, and freedom of speech, which are essential to the long-term health of Turkish democracy. Promoting respect between individuals of different faiths and beliefs remains a long-standing priority for the UK Government; this work is led by the Prime Minister's Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, Rehman Chishti MP. Turkey is a key NATO ally - one of the largest contributors of military personnel - and sits on the frontline of some of the most difficult and serious challenges we face. We will continue to work closely with Turkey at NATO on challenges to peace and security, including our response to COVID-19.