TEHRAN - Turkey got positive signals to start talks with the European Union (EU) during the European-Mediterranean Foreign Ministers meeting which ended in Crete island of Greece on Tuesday.
Sources said they observed a change of attitude and expression in European officials which had not been seen before Copenhagen.
Sources stated that Turkey's starting negotiations at the end of 2004 was not a far possibility in case Turkey fulfills its responsibilities about Copenhagen political criteria.
Sources said Turkey has started to be seen as one from ''the family'' stressed that Iraq problem caused Europe to change within itself. Sources said it was better understood that a strong army, security of energy ways, and a young population were necessary besides a strong economy to be a super power.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul, who responded to questions, underlined that Europe did not bring additional conditions to Turkey apart from Copenhagen political criteria.
Diplomatic sources said there was the necessary political will in both sides, stating that problems regarded with implementation of the 6th adjustment package would be solved to a great extend.
Meanwhile, allegations of Greece that Turkey violated airspace in the Aegean were also discussed.
Sources said the figures were not parallel as there were disagreements between Turkey and Greece about the wideness of airspace.
Turkey was conveyed the message that this issue should not be brought onto a point that will damage improvement of bilateral relations.
(AY) 28.05.2003