Turk PM says his country rejects any alternatives for EU

Turkey preserves all excitement and determination despite negative developments in Turkey's EU accession process, Erdogan told at the conference entitled "Turkish Foreign Policy, Inclinations and Priorities" in Ankara.

"We are locked onto the goal of Turkey's full membership in the EU. We are progressing with determination," he said.

Turkey is going through a very dynamic process globally, and it is important for the country's foreign policy to go in harmony with this dynamic process, Erdogan said, adding Turkey's foreign policy today is much different than it was five and a half years ago. Â

"Turkey has become a country that is conducting entry negotiations with the EU. Turkey's relations are deeper, beginning with its neighboring countries, as well as other countries in the distant corners of the globe. Turkey's exports were worth $36 billion five and a half years ago. Turkey's exports today are worth $125 billion. As of the end of 2007, direct foreign investments in Turkey were worth $22 billion. For many years, direct foreign investment in Turkey did not exceed $1 billion per year," he said.

Erdogan said Turkey's investments overseas are also on the rise, and added that Turkish contractors' sector is the world's third largest after the U.S. and China.

"In addition to all of these realities, Turkey is mediating talks between Israel-Syria and Israel-Palestine. Turkey has an effective role in the preservation of stability in Lebanon and Iraq. All relevant developments point out to Turkey's increasing role in the international arena," he also said.

"For years, Turkey was defined as a country with a strategic position. Turkey was defined as a bridge between Asia and Europe. But these were only words. Only in the past five and a half years have these comments become meaningful. Turkey is no longer just a country uniting Asia with Europe. Turkey is a country that helps civilizations meet from five continents. Turkey has become a country that seeks solutions to international clashes, tensions and problems," Erdogan said.

Turkey works for humanity's tranquility and peace in the Middle East, Caucasus, Balkans and Africa, he said, adding Turkey is not a country whose agenda is determined by others, and Turkey has become a country that determines the agenda globally.

"Turkish-Iraqi relations are today based on a strong cooperation despite being in a state of crisis just a few months ago due to Turkey's military operations in north of Iraq against the terrorist organization. We have opened a new page, after my recent visit to Iraq, on many issues, such as the fight against terror, cultural activities, oil exploration and transportation," he said. Â

"Prime ministers of Turkey and Iraq would meet once every year under the Strategic Council. Under the same council, the relevant ministers of Turkey and Iraq would meet three times a year," Erdogan said.

He said Turkey conducts its relations with the countries of the Middle East and other regions based on dialog, friendship and brotherhood, and added friendship has been promoted in our region.

"Turkey and all of the countries in the Middle East share a common history, culture and belief. Turkey is working so that such common traits are turned into cooperation in the future," he added.

"Turkey is in a new position in the region thanks to its relations with Israel and Palestine. Turkey played an important role in the compromise reached in Lebanon," Erdogan said, adding Turkey hopes to see a peaceful solution to Iran's nuclear program.

"Cyprus is one of the priorities of Turkish foreign policy. We are determined to support a constructive approach for peace in the island. We will be in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) this coming weekend with a large delegation. We will attend the inauguration of new facilities and join in the celebrations of the TRNC. We will continue to support the efforts made within the framework of the United Nations for a comprehensive solution in the island," he said.

He said Turkey has received great support from many nations for its non-permanent membership at the U.N. Security Council ahead of the U.N. Security Council's voting on the non-permanent membership in the upcoming months.

Photo: AA