June 25, 2009 - 02:33 AMT
Turkey is the most important country for Britain's national security?
A member of the British House of Commons and a deputy of the Conservative Party Liam Fox said on June 24 there is no other country more important for Britain's national security than Turkey.
Speaking at a meeting co-hosted by the Conservative Party Friends of Turkey group, Fox said that Turkey carries high importance based on its geopolitical status, existence in NATO and its role in energy security.
However, anti-Turkish sentiments and xenophobia in the European Union (EU) all risk Turkey's status, Fox said.
Warning those against Turkish membership in the EU, Fox said that, if Turkey does not become an EU member, Turkey may turn its face towards Russia and the Middle East.
Turkey is both politically and militarily important for Britain as a partner. Turkey has an important place in the Islamic world, Fox also said, turkishny.com reports.