BRUSSELS - ''Negotiations for full membership will be started with Turkey if the European Council gives the green light,'' said European Commission President Romano Prodi on Wednesday.
Prodi and the European Union (EU) Commissioner for Enlargement Guenter Verheugen replied questions of MPs after briefing them about Progress Report on Turkey.
Prodi said, ''we have fulfilled the mission given by European Council and the final decision will be made by heads of state and government. It is necessary to carry on talks with Turkey seriously, with goodwill and to reach a pre-determined target. Technically, talks will be difficult and long. Turkey needs new reforms.''
''We trust in Turkey, however, we cannot give an assurance for a positive result in the end of talks. If the Council approves, talks aiming full membership will start,'' added Prodi.
Prodi said that public opinions of Turkey and the EU should be confident.
Meanwhile, Verheugen said, ''Erdogan said that his government attributes great importance in fight against torture and he explained the comprehensive measures taken by them. Turkish government fulfills every criteria in this area.''
''Religious minorities in Turkey also made clear that the problems are about to be overcome and they want talks to start. If Turkey is given a 'positive perspective', the problems can be solved easier and faster,'' added Verheugen.
EP President Josep Borrell Fonftelles said that the final decision will be taken by Parliament. He wished constructive negotiations to continue.
(GC-ULG) 06.10.2004