VISIT FROM MARTIN SCHULZ

Minister for EU relations Egemen Bagis accepted Chairman of the Party of European Socialists group in the European Parliament, Martin Schulz and his accompanying committee in Prime Ministry.

Emphasizing that these meetings are constructive on mutual relationship of Turkey and EU, Bagis spoke of his visits in Brussels. "Thank you for your companionship to our country. We place emphasis on dialogue therefore we shall increase official contacts" said Bagis.

Stating that the opposition's concern for Party of European Socialists group proves rising excitement over EU process, Bagis said "Our visit to Brussels is an indicator of our determination on reforms and full EU membership. We especially paid visit to European Parliament and it made clean that we consider European Parliament important."

Reminding that National Program came into force on 31 December 2008, Bagis underlined stating full membership is a strategic goal for Turkey and in parallel with this goal reforms will gain momentum thanks to government policies and public support.

"I wish you success in the general elections to be held in June. We hope that Turkey's accession to EU will not be abused in consequence of populist policies and internal dynamics during the election process" added Bagis.