MINISTER FOR EU AFFAIRS BAGIS MET WITH EUROPEAN COMMISSION DIRECTOR FAULL

Egemen Bagi, Minister for EU Affairs and Chief Negotiator s received Jonathan Faull, Director General for Justice, Freedom and Security in the European Commission at the Secretariat General for EU Affairs.

Bagis said in his statement before the meeting that Turkey's EU membership process was not something new and that Turkey made every effort with perseverance, patience and determination to continue with the EU process since 1959.

Pointing out that it took 45 years for Turkey to get a negotiation date; Bagis noted that it was a national objective and a state policy for Turkey to become a full member to the EU.

Bagis said, "Turkey is aware of her responsibilities before the EU but she expects the same commitment and awareness from the EU authorities and EU Member States."

Bagis indicated that positive attitude towards reopening of the files which were not opened for a long time between Turkey and the EU and towards dealing with and resolving sensitivities including mutual share of burden would be maintained.

In his short speech, Faull also noted that in the context of the area he is responsible for there were important issues to be dealt with together with Turkey and that it was important to work together to resolve these issues.

Source: AA