Macron Prepares Law to Strengthen Secularism, Warns Against Islamic Separatism
Last Year, Heated Debate Over NATO 'Brain Death' Remark
[Asia Economy International Department Reporter] Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan criticized French President Emmanuel Macron, saying he "needs psychiatric treatment."
On the 24th (local time), President Erdogan said at the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) meeting, "Does Macron have a problem with Muslims? He needs psychiatric treatment."
He added, "What can be said about a head of state who treats millions of people within his own country who believe in minority religions in this way? First, a psychiatric evaluation is needed."
Earlier this month, President Macron mentioned fighting 'Islamic separatism,' criticizing it by saying, "The ideology that claims their own laws are superior to the laws of the Republic is the problem."
On the 2nd, he unveiled a bill banning the wearing of religious symbols such as hijabs for workers in the private sector providing public services.
The French government is also expected to propose a bill next month to further strengthen the principle of secularism.
On the same day, President Erdogan warned, "Europe is preparing for self-destruction on the front against Muslims," adding, "Unless this disease is removed quickly, Europe will collapse from within."
France responded immediately to this.
The French presidential office stated, "Excessiveness and rudeness are not the way. Since it is dangerous in every aspect, we demand that President Erdogan change his policy."
President Macron and President Erdogan have been exchanging criticisms and verbal confrontations since last year.
The two countries have shown conflicting positions and conflicts over issues such as Eastern Mediterranean natural gas development, the Syrian and Libyan civil wars, and the Azerbaijan-Armenia clashes.
In particular, the two leaders exchanged emotional remarks last year regarding the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
At that time, President Macron criticized NATO's division, saying, "Currently, we are experiencing NATO's 'brain death.'"
In response, President Erdogan referred to President Macron, saying, "First, check if you are not brain dead," and criticized, "Such remarks are only suitable for someone in a brain-dead state like you."
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