Angela Merkel has risked a diplomatic backlash from Turkey by condemning its response to opposition protests as a violation of human rights.
Despite the German chancellor’s strong criticism, Bulent Arinc, Turkey’s deputy prime minister, said “elements of the armed forces” could be deployed to quell the anti-government protests. Mrs Merkel said yesterday she was “appalled, like many others” at the tough response to the protests by Turkey, a candidate for EU membership.
“I would like to see those who have a different opinion and a different idea of society having some space in a Turkey that moves into the 21st Century,” she said.
“What’s happening in Turkey at the moment is not in line with our idea of the freedom to demonstrate or freedom of speech.
Read more: http://www.independent.ie/world-news/europe/turkey-too-harsh-on-protesters-says-merkel-29352366.html
