THE MINISTRY OF EUROPEAN UNION AFFAIRS ESTABLISHED

Delivering a written message concerning the establishment of the Ministry of European Union Affairs, Minister for EU Affairs and Chief Negotiator Egemen Bagis stated that Turkey had proved once again its determination for accession to the European Union.

In his statement Bagis indicated that the government transformed the Secretariat General for the European Union Affairs into a full-fledged Ministry, which will continue reporting directly to the Prime Minister.

Minister Bagis reported that this decision was a significant message to the European Union that Turkey keeps up the impetus in its determined drive towards the European Union membership despite all political obstacles on its negotiation process and it was also a clear response to the allegations that Turkish foreign policy "axis" has shifted.

Indicating that after the elections they were determined to push forward with the European Union process through reforms on all areas that would upgrade individual liberties and improve the living standards of their citizens, Minister Bagis continued as follows:

"Turkey has proved once again its determination for accession to the European Union by establishing today the Ministry of European Union Affairs. We hope that this determination will be appreciated and reciprocated by the European Union and its member states."