Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has officially opened the Cambridge Central Mosque in the east of England.

Described as Europe's first eco-mosque, the facility is equipped with solar panels, relies on green energy and aims for a zero-carbon footprint. It first opened to the public in April.

"I think this place of worship will be the best answer to the rising anti-Islamism," Erdogan said, according to Anadolu Agency.

"I believe this mosque, which has become the symbol of solidarity against discrimination from the first moment, will, God willing, continue to be the center of unity, conversation and peace in the future," he added.

Several other donors contributed to the mosque's development, including the Turkish government and Qatar National Fund.

According to the mosque's website, its design was inspired by Islamic religious architectural traditions.

"We sought to develop the idea of a British mosque for the 21st century," the website says. "With everything from solar panels and grey water harvesting to state-of-the-art heating and cooling technology, it is a pioneer in 'green deen (faith)', reminding us of our connection to nature."

Source: Aljazeera