Istanbul, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan sent a message to Sweden not to wait for Ankara’s support regarding its membership in NATO, as long as it does not respect Islamic beliefs.
Erdogan said in a speech delivered after a government meeting at the presidential complex in the capital, Ankara, today, Monday: “If you (meaning Sweden) do not respect the religious beliefs of Turkey or Muslims, do not expect any support from us regarding your membership in NATO.”
Erdogan explained that this ugly act in Sweden (burning a copy of the Holy Quran) is an insult against all those who respect the basic rights and freedoms of people, especially Muslims.
He added, “The Holy Qur’an, which our Lord preserves, will never be harmed if a copy of it is burned by one of the remains of the Crusaders, and we know that since the Crusades Europe has equated the concepts of Islam and the Turks, and we are proud of this equality.”
Erdogan indicated that those who caused such disgrace by burning a copy of the Koran in Sweden in front of the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm, should not expect any bounty from Ankara regarding NATO membership applications.
He also said: “If Sweden loves the members of the terrorist organization and the enemies of Islam so much, we recommend that it resort to these in its defense.”
The Turkish President stressed that no one has the freedom to insult the sanctities of Muslims or other religions.
On the general elections in Turkey, Erdogan said: “After extensive assessments, it became clear to us that the next May 14th is the most suitable day for holding elections. “
Source: National Iraqi News Agency