ANKARA - Turkish President Abdullah Gul said on Tuesday that United Kingdom has been one of the staunchest supporters of Turkey in its progress towards the EU membership.
"Turkey is grateful for your unhesitant and continuous support," President Gul said speaking at the dinner hosted at Cankaya Palace in honor of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom.
"This visit is an indication of strong relations between Turkey and United Kingdom, and will further strengthen our strategic partnership," he added.
Gul said history of peoples of Turkey and United Kingdom intermingled in an inseparable way, adding "our armies confronted from time to time. However, at the same time our armies battled boldly against common enemies and sacrificed their lives. Relations between our countries have affected tide of events in Europe for centuries."
Gul said Turkey and United Kingdom, being allies, shielded freedom and democracy in Europe, took seriously their responsibilities to give direction to developments in Europe, and did not remain as spectator to the opportunities.
(AY)