‘Muslim world proud of Turkey's achievements’

By Mesut Zeyrek

ESSEN, Germany (AA) - Muslim world greatly welcomes Turkey’s achievements, a former president of Tunisia said.

In an interview with Anadolu Agency, Moncef Marzouki said: “Turkey has become a source of pride for Muslim countries with its economic, political and military achievements.”

The prominent politician, who served as Tunisia’s president between 2011 and 2014, said Turkey’s remarkable progress has also been a source of inspiration.

“In my view, what has been accomplished so far in Turkey is a miracle,” he said, adding that this was achieved despite international plots against the country.

“The foiled coup attempt on July 15, 2016, and recent economic plots against Turkey are among these international plots,” Marzouki added.

He praised Turkey’s efforts for Syrian refugees who fled civil war in their country.

“I would like to thank President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Turkey for hosting more than 3 million Syrians,” he added.

The Tunisian politician also thanked German Chancellor Angela Merkel for keeping her country’s doors open to refugees fleeing from wars and conflicts.

But he also voiced concern over growing Islamophobia in Germany and other European countries, as far-right parties carried out extensive propaganda by exploiting fears over the refugee crisis.