BRUSSELS (AA) - Turkey has been conveying its expectations to EU leaders on every level regarding the expressions which will take place in decision text of EU Summit in Brussels.
Although leaders have not reached a full consensus on draft text yet, sources said that while some issues are becoming clear, technical talks on some other issues will continue until the last moment.
Sources stated that Turkish party had been clearly conveying its attitude regarding Cyprus and privileged partnership issues during meetings between Turkey and EU Acting Presidency.
Officials considered positive the statement of French President Jacques Chirac who said yesterday, ''it will be unjust to suggest privileged partnership to Turkey.'' Turkey stated that it was very sensitive about this issue, and did not want a reference to such a relation in the final version of draft.
Meanwhile, regarding Cyprus issue, Ankara stated that Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) had displayed with good will in referenda process, and promises given to Turkish Cypriots have not been fulfilled yet, noting that it would not be right to present Cyprus issue as a condition to Turkey.
Turkey also conveys that it is not positive towards permanent restrictions on free movement of people as it is against both EU law and the basic mentality of the Union.
Beginning date of negotiations is considered as the less discussed matter. Turkish Premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that Turkey wishes to start negotiations in April.
Sources said that negotiations can start in the second half of 2005.
(GC-MS)
2004-12-16