Hamburg recognizes Muslim religious holidays

The northern German city of Hamburg has recognized Muslim religious holidays, in a major achievement for the sizable community in the European country.

The Turkish-Islamic association of Germany (DITIB) and two other Muslim groups signed an agreement with the Hamburg authorities to recognize Muslim holidays.

This is "a historic day for Hamburg, but also for Germany," Zekeriya Altug, chairman of the Hamburg office of the DITIB, said.

Under the deal, authorities will recognize `Eid Al-Fitr, `Eid Al-Adha, and the Day of Ashura as official holidays.