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Jul 31 08 3:38 PM

Turkey's Rulers Survive Secularist Challenge
High Court Lets Islamic-Rooted Party Continue, but With a 'Serious Warning'


ISTANBUL, July 30 -- Turkey's highest court decided Wednesday not to outlaw the nation's Islamic-rooted ruling party, handing Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan a narrow victory and frustrating Turks intent on protecting the secular character of the government.

Addressing members of his ruling Justice and Development Party, Erdogan hailed the court's decision. "Democracy wins," he said to vigorous applause. "Political and economic stability win."