EU Can Not Remain Indifferent To Developments In A Negotiating Country, Babacan

LONDON - Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan said on Tuesday that closure case against Turkey`s ruling AK Party come up during his meetings in Britain.
"Turkey is a negotiating country with the EU. It is not possible for the EU to remain totally indifferent to developments in a negotiating country," Babacan said while speaking to Turkish reporters after his 2-day formal visit to Britain.
"Obviously, developments in question are important for Turkey`s relations with the EU. We should be aware of this and make resolute steps," Babacan said.
Babacan described relations between Turkey and Britain as "excellent", noting that trade volume between the two parties amounted to 14 billion USD.
Turkish FM said Britons were the members of an EU member country who buy the most real estates in Turkey. "There are many Turkish citizens living in Britain," he added.
Babacan said point of views of Turkey and Britain overlap on many international matters, adding that open and strong support of Britain over Turkey`s EU bid continued.
Babacan said Britain attached high value to Turkey in terms of economy, strategy, security and energy. "Britain appreciates contributions of Turkey in solution of international problems," he said.
Responding to a question what Turkey expected from the European countries regarding presence of terrorist PKK organization in Europe, Babacan said, "freedom of speech is one of the key values of the EU. This is what we want to improve in Turkey. However, we can not accept if freedom turns to insult and if it supports violence and terrorism."
Commenting on efforts to find a solution to Cyprus question, Babacan said Britain was one of the countries who extended the most intensive efforts.
"However, EU comprises of 27 countries and unanimity is needed in its decisions. Vetoes of Greek Cypriot administration hinder the parties from having progress," he said.
Babacan said Turkey assumed a cautious optimism regarding solution in Cyprus in order to prevent any disappointment.
Turkish Foreign Minister will depart from London later today.
(AY-AÖ)