"We are only two weeks from an existential explosion
If the European Union now spurns Turkey, it will deservedly stand accused of historic dishonesty and perfidy
Today, as in the past, Turkey embodies transcendent political questions. Can west and east live in harmony? How can secular and religious values best coexist? Are minorities and human rights properly respected? This week Pope Benedict trod a more exemplary path through these difficult issues than some had expected. Now the European Union must do the same if it is to avoid becoming a protectionist irrelevance and, perhaps, if it is to survive at all."
More:We are only two weeks from an existential explosion | Special reports | Guardian Unlimited
