BRUSSELS - Turkish State Minister & Deputy Prime Minister Abdullatif Sener warned the EU and some other countries not to interfere in Turkish-Armenian relations.
Sener is in Belgian capital of Brussels to participate in events organized by the Turkish Industrialists` & Businessmen`s Association (TUSIAD) and European Policy Center to mark the first anniversary of the start of Turkey-EU negotiations.
In an exclusive interview with the A.A correspondent, Sener referred to French President Jacques Chirac`s remarks about the so-called Armenian genocide allegations, and said, "Chirac said that recognition of so-called Armenian genocide should be a pre-condition before Turkey`s EU membership. A resolution is being discussed in France, and it foresees fine and imprisonment for those who deny Armenian genocide. It is not possible to accept such an attitude. This is against the cultural atmosphere the EU is trying to create."
"Armenia is not a European country, it is an Asian country. So, it is a third country for the EU. So, it is meaningless to bring this matter up within the scope of Turkey`s EU membership process," he stated.
Sener added, "whether it is an EU member or another country, everybody who is affecting the Armenian policy from outside should give up his endeavors. Chirac`s remarks are not sincere, they aim to affect the domestic policy.``
-CYPRUS PROBLEM-
On Cyprus problem, Sener said that the plan which was prepared by EU Acting President Finland and envisions opening of Maras and Magosa port, is being examined and assessed.
"Let`s see Cyprus as a whole, let`s review ports issue together with the embargoes on TRNC (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus). Let`s make a positive progress in both of these matters. These are proposals made by Turkey. And, it is the Greek Cypriot administration who resists. If the EU gives up standing behind every demand of the Greek Cypriot administration, they may have to reach compromise and try to resolve the problem," he added.