Germany-Turkey-Erdogan /WRD/
Berlin downplays criticism over Erdogan remarks on assimilation
Berlin, Feb 13, IRNA -- The German government on Wednesday tried to
downplay German criticism over recent remarks by Turkish Prime
Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan for denouncing assimilation, or becoming
completely German, as a 'crime against humanity' at a speech to
over 20,000 Turks in the western city of Cologne on Sunday.
Speaking to the press in Berlin, deputy government spokesman
Thomas Steg hailed the 'importance' of Erdogan's trip to Germany amid
'different interpretations' during the talks between Erdogan and
Chancellor Angela Merkel over the need for Turks to integrate in
Germany.
The visit of the Turkish prime minister has set 'a new impetus' to
the integration debate in Germany, added Steg.
The chancellery spokesman refused comment on remarks by a leading
lawmaker of Merkel's Christian Democratic Union party who accused
Erdogan of meddling in Germany's domestic affairs.
"I am not willing to comment on statements by legislators," Steg
said.
Talking to the daily Westdeutsche Zeitung, the deputy head of the
CDU faction, Wolfgang Bosbach said, "German politicians are
responsible for co-existence in Germany."
He stressed that the Turkish government should 'not try to carry
out internal policies in Germany'.
On Monday, the chancellor seriously questioned Erdogan's
interpretation of integration after the Turkish leader urged the
creation of Turkish schools and universities in Germany as well as
providing Turkish-trained teachers to educate migrant children in
German public schools.
"We will have to continue debating our understanding of
integration issues with the Turkish prime minister," Merkel said.
"I am pleased he pronounces himself in favor of integration and
learning the German language, but long-term life in a country also
involves a stronger acceptance of its habits," she added.
Merkel made clear that the 'loyalty (of Turks in Germany) belonged
entirely with the German state'.
The conservative CDU strongly rejects Turkey's membership in the
European Union, calling instead for a 'privileged partnership'.
There are around 2.5 million Turks living in Germany out of a
total population of 82.5 million.
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::IRNA No.042 13/02/2008 19:44 --End
