'Germany should take necessary steps against racism'

By Emin Avundukluoglu

ANKARA (AA) - The Turkish parliament speaker called on Germany to take necessary steps against racist terror attacks in the country.

"We are following with concern the rise of racist organizations in Germany," Mustafa Sentop told the journalists in the parliament.

He said Germany should prioritize a fight against racism in the country.

Sentop's remarks came after a German far-right extremist killed at least nine people on Wednesday night in the western town of Hanau, near Frankfurt.

The perpetrator, who targeted migrants at two cafes, was identified by security forces as 43-year-old Tobias R., German daily Bild reported.

Several Turkish citizens were feared to be among the victims.

Hanau is located around 20 kilometers (12 miles) east of Frankfurt and has a population of nearly 100,000.