Erdogan says Macron needs ‘mental treatments’ following Islamophobic statements
France has recalled its envoy to Turkey for consultations after Erdogan's comments.
Istanbul (QNN)- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Saturday that French President Emmanuel Macron needs “mental treatment” because of his hostility towards Islam.
“What is Macron’s problem with Islam and Muslims? He needs mental health treatment,” Erdogan said at the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) congress in central Kayseri province.
“What can be said to a head of state that treats millions of members of a religious minority in his country this way? First of all, (he needs) mental check,” Erdogan added.
France recently started an extensive campaign against the Muslim community following Macron calling Islam a problematic religion that needs to be contained. Many non-governmental organizations and mosques have been shut down in the last two weeks, while assaults against Muslims have peaked. Several Muslims have been reportedly attacked in deadly attacks as well.
Responding to Erdogan’s comments, Paris recalled its envoy to Ankara for consultations.
“President Erdogan’s comments are unacceptable. Excess and rudeness are not a method. We demand that Erdogan change the course of his policy because it is dangerous in every respect,” a French presidential official told Agence France-Presse (AFP).
The Elysee official, who asked not to be named, also said that France had noted “the absence of messages of condolence and support” from the Turkish president after the beheading of teacher Samuel Paty outside Paris.
The attack, carried out by an 18-year-old Chechen, came following measures, restricting mosques and Muslims in the country.
The official also expressed concern over calls by Ankara for a boycott of French goods.
Macron this month described Islam as a religion “in crisis” worldwide and said the government would present a bill in December to strengthen a 1905 law that officially separated church and state in France.
