By IRNA,
Berlin : Dutch Islamophobic politician Geert Wilders hailed German Chancellor Angela Merkel for what he termed her ‘critical’ stance towards Islam, the daily newspaper Die Welt reported Wednesday.
Addressing the Dutch parliament, Wilders said Merkel had taken over ‘the lead in the area of criticism about Islam.’
‘Mrs. Merkel, you are right,’ said the head of the Dutch anti-Islam Party for Freedom.
The German chancellor caused a stir earlier this month after voicing support for comments by a leading political ally of hers who called for a stop of Muslim migrants to Germany, notably Turks and Arabs.
Merkel did not distance herself from recent controversial remarks made by the head of the Christian Social Union (CSU), Horst Seehofer who demanded a halt to the immigration from what he labeled ‘alien cultures.’
The CSU leader also alleged migrants from Turkey and the Middle East were ‘more difficult’ than others.
Seehofer’s CSU has spearheaded an intense anti-Muslim campaign in recent weeks, especially after the latest statements by President Christian Wulff who said Islam was part of Germany.
CSU General Secretary Alexander Dobrindt openly said the integration of Muslims should ‘not be allowed to set off the weakening and neglect’ of the German culture and its values.
Germany’s conservative parties have instrumentalized mounting anti-Muslim sentiments in the country to further their narrow-minded political agenda.