Conference On Turkey - E.U. - U.S.A.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (AA) - European Union Commission Washington, D.C. Representative Jonathan Davidson has stated that the EU is firmly determined to find avenues that will lead to the resolution of the Cyprus problem.
     The American-Turkish Council (ATC) and Atlantic Council organized a conference, titled ''Turkey's Acceptance into the EU: The Impact on the USA relations with Turkey and EU,'' in an office of the American Senate yesterday.
     In a speech delivered, Davidson said that a new step must be taken in Cyprus for a solution. ''We expect an increase in the number of efforts made to find a solution. We also expect the UN to re-start the meetings after the April elections in Northern Cyprus,'' told Davidson. Davidson indicated that the issues of Cyprus and Armenians are not a part of the upcoming negotiations.
     Asked to evaluate the Turkish Land Forces Commander General Yasar Buyukanit's recent comments that ''not a single Turkish soldier will be pulled out of Cyprus prior to a lasting agreement,'' Davidson did not provide a direct answer. However, Davidson noted that this situation shows once again how important it is to have a comprehensive solution in Cyprus.
     Davidson remarked that Turkey, to a large extent, has fulfilled its requirements under the Copenhagen criteria. ''Turkish-American ties will not be (negatively) affected by Turkey's full membership in the EU. Turkey's membership in the EU will benefit American interests,'' commented Davidson.
     Turkish General Secretary for EU Affairs Murat Sungar stated that certain circles look at Turkey as a ''Trojan Horse'' of Islam in Europe and some others view Turkey as a ''Trojan Horse'' of the west in an Islamic world. ''None of these assumptions are valid. Such theories are unacceptable,'' said Sungar.
     In a brief speech, U.S. Department of State Europe Desk Director Scott Marciel has indicated that the EU membership process have helped the realization of reforms in Turkey. ''Turkey's journey towards full membership in the EU will be difficult, but at the same time healthy,'' remarked Marciel. Marciel added that Turkey does not necessarily have to make a selection decision between the EU and U.S.. ''The U.S. has always been supportive of Turkish membership in the EU. Turkey's membership is not only important for Turkey, but for the whole region as well,'' expressed Marciel.
     Marciel further stressed that the Europeans criticize the U.S. for meddling in EU business and supporting Turkey's bid to join the EU. ''We do not want special privileges and treatment for Turkey. Surely, Turkey must meet the requirements of the EU. However, once Turkey fulfills the EU requirements, it must be admitted into the union,'' noted Marciel.
     (ES-A֩
2005-01-28