Anadolu Agency, Turkey
Jan 29 2005

Conference On Turkey – E.U. – U.S.A.

Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
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.