WORLD
FEDERAL CHANCELLOR OF GERMANY ARRIVED IN TURKEY
An official, working visit of federal chancellor of Germany Gerhard Schroder to Ankara has commenced on February 23. Reportedly, the last visit of such a high-ranking official of Germany was 11 years ago. Currently, over 2 million Turkish citizens reside in Germany. Turkey is a candidate for EU membership. In this respect, visit of federal chancellor to Ankara is of great significance. On the first day, Prime Minister of Turkey met with Federal Chancellor.
Following the meeting, they made a statement for local and foreign journalists. Gerhard Schroder told of significance of political and economic reforms being implemented in Turkey.
The guest stressed a positive position of official Ankara towards Cyprus discussions and backed up Turkey’s candidacy for the European Union. Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed hope that the European Union will begin discussions towards Turkey’s membership in December 2004.
During negotiations, the sides exchanged views on some regional and international issues.