(Zaman) - EU Commissioner responsible for enlargement Olli Rehn said that Turkeys full membership into the EU could play a significant role in Europes relations with the Islamic world.
Rehn, in a statement to Finnish newspapers, said a moderate and democratic Turkey would play a strategic role in Europe, reports Trend.
He also said that the war in the Middle East confirmed the significance of Turkeys accession to the EU, adding: The importance of the negotiations with Turkey was increased in light of the clashes in Lebanon because Turkey is a secular and democratic country with a predominantly Muslim population. As long as Turkey fulfills its responsibilities for EU membership, there could be a stronger bridge built between Europe and the Islamic world.
Rehn went on to say that there was no reason to worry that Turkey would have problems in meeting the membership criteria because of its importance and strategic significance.