Tensions in Germany ahead of pro-Erdogan demoBERLIN: Tens of thousands of supporters of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan plan to rally in the German city of Cologne Sunday, as tensions over Turkey’s failed coup have put authorities on edge. German media have published reams of interviews with pro-Erdogan youths who were brought up in Germany and visit Turkey only during summer holidays. Erdogan enjoys a large support base in Germany, home to some 1.5 million people with Turkish nationality who can vote in Turkish elections. Ahead of the march, security services have sought to head-off any potential clashes between pro- and anti-Erdogan groups. The North-Rhine Westphalia state, where Cologne is located, is home to about one third of Germany’s three-million strong Turkish community.

Source: Manila Times July 29, 2016 11:37 UTC