Current circumstances in Turkey are pathetic: Schauble

German Minister says his country would examine prospect of giving aid to Turkey only if it changes pathetic conditions

German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schauble said the current situation in Turkey was “pathetic”, commenting on the prospect of Germany reassessing Turkey’s request for financial aid. “Turkey has to guarantee that all the necessary requirements are present that would allow the country to receive financial aid”, Mr. Schauble stressed. Responding to a question on whether Germany would persist with initial offer to examine providing help in the form of financing to Turkey, the German politician said yes, but added “But, of course, Turkey must retain or recreate the necessary conditions, as the state of affairs now is pathetic.” Turkey has been under a barrage of harsh criticism following the row that broke out with the Netherlands regarding the latter’s decision to ban poltical rallies by Turkish politicians on their soil, with other EU member-states following the Dutch example.