DMB
06 Apr 2009, 11:58 AM
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article6041404.ece
Mr Obama, who flew to Turkey last night, clearly wanted to leave on a positive note. He told EU leaders: “The United States and Europe must approach Muslims as our friends, neighbours and partners in fighting injustice, intolerance and violence.
“Moving forward towards Turkish membership in the EU would be an important signal of your commitment to this agenda and ensure that we continue to anchor Turkey firmly in Europe.”
Mr Sarkozy... did not wait to hit back. “I have been working hand in hand with President Obama but when it comes to the European Union it is up to member states of the European Union to decide,” Mr Sarkozy said in an interview on French television. “I have always been opposed to this entry and I remain opposed,” he added.
There may be all sorts of reasons for wanting Turkey in the EU, but geographically it's mostly in Asia, so Obama's statement looks a bit odd.
Mr Obama, who flew to Turkey last night, clearly wanted to leave on a positive note. He told EU leaders: “The United States and Europe must approach Muslims as our friends, neighbours and partners in fighting injustice, intolerance and violence.
“Moving forward towards Turkish membership in the EU would be an important signal of your commitment to this agenda and ensure that we continue to anchor Turkey firmly in Europe.”
Mr Sarkozy... did not wait to hit back. “I have been working hand in hand with President Obama but when it comes to the European Union it is up to member states of the European Union to decide,” Mr Sarkozy said in an interview on French television. “I have always been opposed to this entry and I remain opposed,” he added.
There may be all sorts of reasons for wanting Turkey in the EU, but geographically it's mostly in Asia, so Obama's statement looks a bit odd.