ANKARA - Parliament Speaker Bulent Arinc said on Friday that if European Union (EU) gives 2004 as a negotiation date for Turkey's membership, it will not be a positive date.
Arinc who visited Rauf Denktas in Ibni Sina Hospital made statements after his visit. He said that Denktas is following the developments about Cyprus question and Copenhagen, adding that Denktas will continue to work in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) after getting well.
Responding to the questions of reporters, Arinc said that they are also following the developments in Copenhagen and added that Prime Minister and accompanying delegation are carrying out studies in Copenhagen. He said that he thinks the decision will be announced at night.
Arinc said that 2004 is not a positive date for Turkey and he added that holding another meeting in 2003 as a starting date for negotiations and to give negotiation date in the first months can be a positive decision for Turkey.
Arinc said, ''I believe that Turkey is a country deserving to get a date for negotiation by showing that it will continue its adjustment works. We think that each backward step will be taken in the end of some conflicts, ideological approaches and political attitude. But, Turkey will get this date thanks to its achievements and an acceptable decision will be given. I hope this.''
Asked how a date in 2004 or 2005 would affect performance of the parliament in passing constitutional amendments, Arinc said that as the parliament speaker, it would not be right for him to say anything on this issue.
When he was reminded about the statements of Prime Minister Abdullah Gul and Justice and Development Party (AK Party) leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan that ''solution of Cyprus question would be easier if Turkey was given a date,'' Arinc said that Denktas shared the similar view.
Responding to another question, Arinc said that the prime minister would put forth the stance of the government related with the EU process.
Arinc said, ''Cyprus issue is Turkey's issue. As the parliament, we don't think different than Denktas. We don't think different from the TRNC parliament either. We have reached these days in solidarity for years. We don't hope to get a result before reaching a definite guarantee, before our demands are accepted and at least these demands are balanced.''
''There are decisions that the parliament has taken so far to support TRNC. There are official documents showing our projects, plans and views. Negotiations have been carried out in the light of these documents so far. We are in a full solidarity with TRNC. As the parliament, it is not possible for us to accept and approve anything which is not for the benefit of TRNC,'' Arinc added.