Main Points From Angela Merkel's Speech

By The Associated Press
The Associated Press
Wednesday, November 30, 2005; 1:21 PM

-- Some key points made by Angela Merkel in her first speech as Germany's new chancellor:

_ TURKEY: Turkey's membership in the European Union should not be automatic, even if it meets all the conditions. The EU must also be ready for the predominantly Muslim country or any other country wishing to join.

_ U.S. RELATIONS: Germany will seek closer ties but also expects Washington to address concern about illicit CIA activities in Europe and will "not be silent on human rights violations with anyone."

_ ECONOMIC REFORM: The government will continue former Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder's tax and labor market reforms in order to address slow growth and double-digit unemployment and close the budget deficit.

_ MINORITIES: Integrating minorities is a "key task." That needs an "open and honest" dialogue with Islam, but forced marriages and so-called honor killings will not be tolerated.

_ EU CRISIS: Germany will serve as a "mediator" between large and small members as it seeks to rescue the union's stricken constitution and break the deadlock over its future budget.

© 2005 The Associated Press