Australian minister encourages citizens to visit mosques for better understanding

Australia's Minister for Justice Michael Keenan on Thursday urged all Australians to visit a mosque in an effort to break down social barriers and "encourage greater cultural understanding."

Keenan released a statement to raise awareness about the National Mosque Open Day - to take place on Saturday - which is a government initiative in its second year.

He said understanding and accepting other religions was an important part of maintaining Australia's roots as a cultural melting pot.

"Australia is a privileged and unique country and the value of mutual respect is a key part of what makes Australia great," Keenan said in the statement.

"Social cohesion can only be achieved by bringing all Australians together to create connections across communities.

"That is why today I encourage all Australian communities to attend their local National Mosque Open Day on Saturday 31 October."

Keenan also slammed recent protests against the construction of mosques around the country, saying that freedom in Australia is a right, and the nation's cultural diversity isn't reflected through intolerance.

"The government is deeply committed to its freedom agenda, which includes advancing measures to protect freedom of speech, freedom of religion and other traditional rights and liberties," he said.

"However, the government strongly condemns those who attempt to diminish our freedoms in Australia and urge violence and hatred within our community." Enditem