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

Turning away Turkey from the EU would be a great, long-term - a century-long - error by Europe.

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

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

If one has problems with immigrant communities in Europe, that should not be used against Turkey.

After saying yes to Turkey, the EU is having difficulty finding clear and consistent grounds for saying no to other, still more remote candidates - but being in the general vicinity of Europe does seem to be a continuing requirement.

Turkey is a European country, an Asian country, a Middle Eastern country, Balkan country, Caucasian country, neighbor to Africa, Black Sea country, Caspian Sea, all these.

Turkey has worked alongside its allies from the beginning.

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.

As the United States shapes and carries out its policies toward Muslim countries, it should do so with Turkey at its side.