ANKARA - Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul said on Sunday that Turkish government would continue to make reforms, (on Turkey's way to the EU) and attach importance to their implementation.
Gul and European Commissioner for enlargement Olli Rehn held a joint press conference after meeting in Turkish capital of Ankara.
FM Gul said that they considered initiatives to be taken before October 3rd, when Turkey's full membership negotiations would be opened. Gul noted that a new road map on the framework of negotiations would be prepared during the accession process, and this map would be implemented in the best way.
Stating that they also discussed Cyprus problem, Gul said, ''because, this problem will be put before us in every occasion Turkey and Turkish Cypriots wish to find a lasting solution to the problem.''
Gul stressed that ''both Turkey and Turkish Cypriots fulfilled their responsibilities to find a lasting solution'' and went on, ''we hope the other party will also behave responsibly. Undoubtedly, we have expectations from the EU. The Commission prepared two regulations, but they haven't been adopted yet. Our cooperation will continue, and we will complete this process.''
On the other hand, Rehn said that Gul assured him that Turkey would sign the adjustment protocol of the Ankara Agreement before October 3rd.
Rehn stated that the EU continued its preparations to start negotiations with Turkey, and hoped that the frame of negotiations would be known by the end of June.
Stressing significant reforms made by Turkey to improve human rights, Rehn urged Turkey to continue legal, political and economic reforms and their implementation.
Rehn said that ''zero tolerance to torture and implementation of cultural and women's rights were important'', and stated that Turkey should also consider the rights of non-Muslims and trade unions.
Referring to Cyprus problem, Rehn said that FM Gul gave him assurance that the adjustment protocol of the Ankara Agreement would be signed before October 3rd. He noted that the UN would undertake the leading role to solve Cyprus problem, but the European Commission would also do its best to help a solution.
Answering a question, Rehn said that they had made a minor but significant progress in two regulations regarding TRNC, and expressed belief that these regulations would be passed soon. Thus, he noted they would contribute to economic developments of Turkish Cypriots.
Rehn added that the screening process would also start on October 3rd since this process was launched together with the start of entry talks.