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Manfred Weber
Photo: Virginia Mayo / dpa
The CSU European politician Manfred Weber has criticized the appearance of the EU leaders on their recent visit to Turkey.
This is another warning sign that EU foreign policy is not prepared for the tough realities, said the group leader of the European People's Party on Tuesday after a meeting of the EU parliamentary leaders.
Unity is expected from the top politicians who represent the EU in the world, Weber added.
"Above all, when you are dealing with autocrats and dictators - politicians who promote conflict rather than compromise - the European Union must appear strong and united under all circumstances."
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A third armchair was not ready: EU visit to the Turkish President
Photo: - / AFP
EU Commission head Ursula von der Leyen and Council President Charles Michel visited Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan last week and promised him closer cooperation.
There was excitement about the seating arrangement at the meeting: Erdoğan only offered Michel a chair next to him, von der Leyen had to sit on a sofa to the side and looked duped.
Michel and von der Leyen reported to the top of the EU Parliament on Tuesday.
Michel is criticized because he accepted the requirements of the seating arrangement during the public appearance and did not advocate equal treatment by der Leyens.
According to the EU Commission, Michel von der Leyen has now made it clear that she will never allow such a situation again.
Michel expressed regret.
The incident in Ankara cast doubt on Michel's suitability for his office as Council President, said left parliamentary group leader Martin Schirdewan of the dpa.
“Michel is actually on trial for me.
He let Erdogan pull himself up on foreign policy. "
kim / dpa