From AFP, with thanks to Kemaste:
BERLIN, Nov 26 (AFP) – Integrating Turkey into the European Union would be “a historic opportunity to build a bridge to the Islamic world”, German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder said on Friday….
“A democratic Turkey which makes a commitment to respect European values would be clear proof that there is no contradiction between the Muslim faith and a modern and enlightened society,” Schroeder told a conference on European culture that was also attended by European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso.
Turkey could become “a model for other Muslim countries which border Europe”, Schroeder added.
“This is why the membership of Turkey is rightly linked to a hope for peace and security, with implications way beyond Europe.
“You cannot refuse EU membership to any country that conforms to the values of democracy, to the rule of law and to the protection of human rights and the rights of minorities,” Schroeder said.
Right, Schroeder. That’s why Turkey should not be admitted.