".....Observers believe Turkey's prospects of joining the EU have been slowed down, if not halted altogether. This is likely to be seen in some Middle Eastern countries as a major slight to the Islamic world, some Arab analysts said. Advocates of Ankara's EU bid argue that as the only Muslim nation in the European Union, Turkey would be a useful bridge between the West and the Islamic world at a time of strained relations.
Turkey's formal application to the EU is still scheduled for Oct 3. With the British, who are strongly pro-Turkey, holding the EU presidency, it is likely to go forward as planned, and the mood music will be as sweet as possible; but it will still be very slow music, perhaps even a funeral march for Ankara's aspirations."
More:Analysis:'No' vote impacts Islam relations - (United Press International)
