The relations between Germany and Turkey are strong enough to withstand difference in opinions, Spokesperson for Chancellor of Germany, Steffen Seibert, told journalists Friday.

He described the relations between Germany and Turkey as “wide and deep,” noting the importance of cooperation in the issue of migrant crisis, France-Presse reports.

Seibert especially pointed out to the fact that nearly 3 million Turks live in Germany, stressing that “they are and continue to remain part of our country.”

“The democratic culture of our country supposes that continues controversies may exist, but this also means that different opinions can be expressed in peaceful manner,” he stated.

The Bundestag, the lower house of the German parliament, on Thursday formally recognized the Armenian Genocide, with the aforesaid resolution and with only one vote against and one abstention.