Turkey away from EU not in Europe's interest - Merkel

BERLIN, April 27 (KUNA) -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel stated on Thursday that if Turkey keeps away from the European Union (EU), this would be against the interest of Europe.
A speech made by Merkel addressing the German parliament (Bundestag) said, "Turkey and Europe moving away from each other neither serves interests of Germany nor the EU." The German Chancellor urged the Turkish presidency to abide by requirements for the state of law, freedoms and freedom of expression.
Merkel added, "In the coming EU meeting, due on Saturday, we will wisely and transparently identify our reactions toward the Turkish post-referendum situation and the timing of these reactions." A slight majority voted yes to Turkey's constitutional referendum, which was held on 16th April, to give more power to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and increase his authority, mainly intended to shift the current ruling system into a presidential one.
The Turkish-European relations have been strained due to various issues, namely the referendum, considered by the EU as a move that would undermine freedoms. (end) ong.mys