LONDON - ''Opening of seminary in Heybeliada (Istanbul) cannot be accepted as a precondition of negotiations between Turkey and the EU'', said a Turkish MP, Nevin Gaye Erbatur.
After having talks in British capital of London, Erbatur indicated that the screening process on two chapters (related to negotiations) had been completed, and said that it was now the time to launch negotiations on these two chapters.
''However, they (the EU) try to impose (a new condition, i.e.) opening of Heybeliada seminary as a political criteria,'' she noted. Erbatur said that this move was unacceptable, and stressed that Turkey expected that its full membership negotiations would be (officially) launched in 2006.
''These days are important, so everybody should assume his/her own responsibilities,'' added Erbatur.
-MEETINGS OF TURKISH PARLIAMENTARIANS-
Meanwhile, Turkish parliamentarians headed by Erbatur met members of the British House of Commons, the British commissions on EU and foreign affairs, National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, and Turkish Forum.
The group also had a meeting with Baroness Patricia Scotland, the British Minister of State for the Criminal Justice System and Offender Management during their stay in London.
Turkish parliamentarians are expected to return to Turkey this evening.