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Royal blessing for 'dynamic' Turkey

Jaimie Kanwar

Queen Elizabeth has bestowed the royal seal of approval on Turkey this week...

Speaking on the first day of her state visit to the country, the Queen described the Turkish democracy as 'dynamic' and praised the nation's growing confidence over the last few years.

The Queen commented: "The prospect of joining the European Union has already helped to inspire changes that are improving the lives of its citizens. Turkey is very important strategically, as it is situated on the divide between Europe and Asia".

The monarch, who was speaking at a state banquet held by President Abdullah Gul, is in the middle of a four-day visit to the country.

Turkey's efforts to become an EU member have already been supported by figures in the British government, including Prime Minister Gordon Brown and foreign secretary David Miliband.