Germany: Turkey’s importance increased after Sept 11

BERLIN (AA) – Turkey’s importance increased after September 11 terrorist attacks, German Foreign Ministry spokesman Walter Lindner reported German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer as saying.

“Fischer said that there has been a partnership agreement with Turkey for 40 years, Turkey realizes significant reforms and its strategic importance increased after September 11. In addition, Fischer said that the accession of a Muslim country to European Union would be a good example showing that Western countries and Islam can live together,” Lindner said.

Lindner said that during the visit to Turkey on January 21-22, Fischer would take up the process of making Turkey closer to the EU and other international issues.

Lindner said that before Fischer leaves for Turkey he would meet with UN Secretary General Kofi Annan in the city of Baden-Baden.