BRUSSELS - European Union (EU) Commission for Enlargement Guenter Verheugen said he proposed cooperation to Turkey during his meeting with Justice and Development Party (AK Party) leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Verheugen said they had a constructive and friendly meeting with Verheugen although it was the first meeting.
Responding to a question, Verheugen said Turkey could be a member of the EU if it wants.
Verheugen said solutions, which will satisfy both sides, should be produced till a decision is taken about Turkey in Copenhagen.
When asked about Turkey's new approach to discuss European Security and Defense Policy (ESDP), Cyprus and the EU in a package, Verheugen said they were separate issues, yet that they would be effected from the political atmosphere they are in. Verheugen said solution of one of those issues would effect the solution of the other.
Erdogan in his part said they had the opportunity to listen to the views of Verheugen, stressing that they discussed what kind of steps Turkey should take for the EU full membership.
Pointing out that a strong government came to power in Turkey, Erdogan said they had the opportunity to express Turkey's sensitivity and determination regarded with Copenhagen criteria.
Wishing December 12 Copenhagen Summit to constitute a positive step, Erdogan said, ''we preserve our good will. We are obliged to get a result. We will continue to work.''
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Yasar Yakis told A.A correspondent that a nine-article commitment formed the framework of the cooperation which was brought onto the agenda during the meeting. The nine-article commitment was earlier brought onto the agenda during a meeting in Ankara with the ambassadors of the EU countries.
Erdogan and Yakis had hosted a dinner to the ambassadors of the EU countries at the beginning of November, and made a nine-article commitment till Copenhagen Summit covering issues like human rights, prevention of torture, and freedom of expression.