BRUSSELS - ''Turkey expects a definite date from the EU within 2005,'' said Turkish Foreign Minister & Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul.
Gul, who is currently in Brussels for EU summit, informed press members following his meetings on Friday.
''During my meeting with European Enlargement Commissioner Mr. Guenter Verheugen, we assessed Commission's report and recommendatory decision on Turkey in detail and we exchanged views about developments. I have also met Iraqi Premier Ayad Allawi and assessed the recent situation,'' said Gul.
Gul said, ''I have expressed views of Turkey in my speech in the meeting to inform EU candidate countries. Dutch Premier Jan Peter Balkenende, Dutch Foreign Minister Bernard Bot, President of European Commission Romano Prodi and EU officials attended this meeting.''
''I have recalled that the recommendation of the Commission is very clear and it reflects Turkey's expectations,'' added Gul.
Replying questions of reporters, Gul said, ''we follow debates in France. These debates are about the EU, not Turkey. It is necessary to understand this. Turkey should not endure the cost of these debates which happen during such a period.''
Gul said, ''various scenarios can be in question about start of EU entry talks with Turkey. EU should set a definite entry date for Turkey within 2005 without a new condition or a political decision.''
Gul recalled that problems in Cyprus stem from Greek Cypriot side, stating that the EU knows it very well.
Noting, ''result of each negotiation is not clear in the beginning,'' Gul said, ''everybody should fulfill their responsibilities. The target of talks will be full membership. This should be clear.''
Gul said, ''I have also met Wilfried Martens, president of the European People's Party (EPP) group in the European Parliament (EP). A decision will be made on participation of Justice and Development Party (AK Party) in EPP in January. Most of the European conservatives support Turkey's accession to the EU. There is a difference of opinion among Germans.''
Following the news conference, Gul visited an exhibition which opened at Brussels Fine Arts Palace within the scope of Turkey Festival.
Gul later departed from Belgium.
(GC-MS)