An article from Cairo published in Zaman, the highest-circulation newspaper of Turkey, on Dec. 28 was noteworthy: “Middle East admires European Turkey.”

Before going to that article, we have to note that Islamic Zaman is the media arm of the Gülen Movement, recognized worldwide with schools in more than 100 countries. This Islamic socio-political movement has a Turkey-wide social and economical network and an influential structure, especially in the governmental bodies. Now, let’s read the first sentences of the text in Zaman:

“The words 'Turkish model’ and ‘Turkish experience’ were used for years to describe Turkey, which increasingly became attractive in the Middle East with her rich culture, ability to let religion and modernity to coexist. Its offensive and popular TV serials are now less heard. Indicating that the interest in Turkey accelerated following its application for full membership in the European Union in 2005, Turkey experts in the region say that Middle Eastern people, especially Arabs, admire the European side of Turkey. Experts underline that, being a member of European Union, Turkey will further attract the interest of Arabs.”

Cumali Ünal, Cairo correspondent for Zaman, reflected the opinions of Egyptian journalists, experts and businessmen who support the EU perspective of Turkey. The following sentence, which he cited from the journalist Sara Khorshid, summarizes the message of his article: “If some day Turkey becomes a member of the EU, this shall further elate the Arabs.”