Turkey rapidly becomes a central power in its region. Not only is it becoming an economic power, but also it sets an example for how democratic values can be adopted without having to shed parts of one’s native culture. Turkey has implemented a multi-party democracy since 1950. The Muslim majority country’s struggle wasn’t without its hardships including a couple of coup d’états. Today Turkey’s democracy is stronger than ever before and getting more enduring with a participatory culture setting its roots deep into Turkish society.
Keith Ellison, the first Muslim member of the US Congress, has said Turkey is the most important country in the region and the best example of how Islam and democracy can coexist.
Ellison, visiting Turkey upon the invitation of the Turkish Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialists (TUSKON), had talks with Turkish officials, including Finance Minister Ali Babacan, in Ankara. The congressman told Today's Zaman in an interview that it is very important for Turkey to undertake humanitarian aid mission in this region, while praising Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's initiatives with respect to the unrest and chaos in the Mideast and North Africa. Ellison pointed to the historical link between the US and Turkey and said the ties will continue to grow closer in the future, too.
Ellison also welcomed schools established in the US by businessmen inspired by Fethullah Gulen and said these schools contribute to tolerance and dialogue and that he likes their approach to education.
