“22 European Union (EU) countries will join the peacekeeping force in Lebanon,” Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated in Istanbul, “At the same time at least 22 Islamic countries should send troops to Lebanon.” Erdogan believes it is impossible for Muslim countries to remain indifferent to the conflicts in the Middle East. With historical responsibility resting on its shoulders, Turkey cannot refrain from sending troops to the region, Erdogan said, underlining that every step must be taken for the establishment and maintenance of peace.
Speaking at a dinner at the Dolmabahce Palace, Turkish Parliament’s Speaker Bulent Arinc said, “The region needs Turkey and Turkey should rid itself of any complex and fanaticism and play a more active role in the region. We, as members of the Turkish parliament, will contribute to the formation of any grounds for dialogue,” reports the Zaman.
