Turkey's path toward Europe started back in 1959, almost 50 years ago. But we have been pushed to the side ever since. Despite all the hurdles we will not deviate from our course towards Europe –- even by one step.

We won't allow the people to be devoured by YouTube, Facebook or others.

I should like to repeat what I stated recently in the Jeddah Economic Forum in Saudi Arabia: It won't be the religion, but rather the world-view of some of its followers that shall be made current.

I am saying yes to criticism, but no to insults.

There is an attempt to tarnish Turkey by using press freedom when it is in fact measures taken against terrorism, i dispute this. Nowhere in Europe or in other countries is there a media that is as free as the press in Turkey.

If we look at history, we will see that regimes which persecute [their people] do not remain standing.

There is no moderate or immoderate Islam. Islam is Islam and that's it.