Turkish - Greek Relations Are Developing Since 1999, Babacan

ATHENS - Turkish Foreign Minister and Chief Negotiator for EU talks Ali Babacan said Tuesday that "Turkish-Greek relations are developing since 1999."
In an interview with the Greek To Vima newspaper, Babacan touched on several issues such as Turkish-Greek relations, Turkey`s EU membership process and Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate in Istanbul.
"Developing economic and commercial relations are proof of our cooperation. Bilateral trade between Turkey and Greece reached two billion Euro in 2006," Babacan told.
"In 2006, 400,000 Greeks visited Turkey. The number of Turks visiting Greece in the same year was very low due to visa requirements. We expect Greek authorities to find a solution to the visa requirements," Babacan noted.
In reference to a question on Turkey`s EU membership process, Babacan responded that Turkey is very much attached to the EU membership process. "Three negotiations chapters have already been opened," Babacan underlined.
"Turkey`s progress in the EU is not as fast as we wish. This is not due to Turkey`s performance, but rather political initiatives of EU member states," Babacan indicated.
In regard to a question on the Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate in Istanbul, Babacan stressed that "Turkey helps the patriarchate use its rights." The Greek Orthodox members are our citizens and preserve their religious rights, Babacan added.
Meanwhile, in an interview with the Greek State Television NET, Babacan stressed that "Turkey`s vision of future Turkish-Greek relations is clear."
"Relations between Turkey and Greece develop each year in a stable fashion," Babacan noted.