Erdogan: Even Our Opponents Cannot Deny That We Have Reached The Furthest Point In Our Relations With The E.U.

ANKARA - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who also acts as leader of the Justice and Development Party (AK Party) said on Wednesday, ''even our opponents cannot deny that we have reached the furthest point in our relations with the European Union (EU).''
Speaking at the parliamentary group meeting of the AK Party, Prime Minister Erdogan said, ''the progress made by our government in relations with the EU are evident. Even our opponents cannot deny that we have reached the furthest point in our relations the EU. Currently, European countries have begun considering Turkey a 'partner' or a 'future-member' instead of a 'party'. Therefore, I cannot understand those who claim that we slowed down in our EU membership process. Our government will never give up its goal of increasing political, economic and social standards of Turkish people.''
''There are many people in the EU who well-analyze Turkey's future contributions to the Union in its efforts to become a more influential international actor,'' he said.
Stressing that Turkey had been fulfilling its commitments with good-will and coherence, Prime Minister Erdogan said that they expect the EU to display the same thing.
''For instance, it is unnecessary to discuss what should be done to resolve the Cyprus issue. Some circles in Europe say that they are aware of the unjust treatment against Turkish Cypriots, but cannot do anything to remove it. Such statements damage plausibility of the EU. Being aware of an unfair treatment requires expending efforts to remove it,'' he said.
Noting that Turkey would sign the additional protocol of the Ankara Agreement extending it to include the new EU-member states, Prime Minister Erdogan said, ''in return, we expect the EU to approve financial assistance and direct commerce regulations for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).''
''Turkey is a source of confidence and stability for both its region and Europe. Turkey has been trying to contribute to efforts of finding lasting solutions to problems in world. It is clear that Turkey would make many contributions to the EU,'' he added.