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Those looking from Europe see Turkey as an economic success, whereas others from the Middle East see Turkey as a democratic success.

That is one of the reasons why we advocate for good relations between the two countries. Turkey understands the needs of the region.

Turkey is immersed in a profound social and political conflict between secularists, who have been in power since the republic was founded, and an insurgent Islamic-based movement that seeks to increase the role of religion in public life.

Well, on the one hand the Turks have the legitimate need to defend their national dignity - and this includes being recognized as a part of the west and Europe.

I see Turkey's future as being in Europe, as one of many prosperous, tolerant, democratic countries.

With the backdrop of its geostrategic location and historical ties with the Middle East, Turkey has an essential role to play for the stability, peace and social development of the region.

It is beneficial for Turkish democracy that not all religious conservatives are united under one banner.

We are convinced that Turkey would be a useful member of the European Union.

Turkey is going through an incredible economic, political and social transformation. What is most important is that Turkey has been the owner of this transformation. Ownership has been the key to success.

There is a lot that binds Germany to Turkey, and even if we have a difference of opinion on an individual matter, the breadth of our links, our friendship, our strategic ties, is great.