Erdogan: Turkey is a natural part of the European family

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said, "we expect the EU to re-accomplish the courageous vision of its founders and show the determination of embracing Turkey in the union as a full member." Releasing a statement for Europe Day, Erdogan touched on the establishment of the EU, and emphasized that Turkey was naturally a part of the European family both historical and geographic aspects. "We preserve our determination to accelerate Turkey's accession to the EU and fulfill our duty in this matter. Nonetheless, it is obvious there is a deadlock due to the blockages some countries put forward with political concerns. Overcoming these problems would be for the interest of both Turkey and Europe. Turkey has accomplished significant economic and political reforms in the last decade, and today it has come a long way in providing the highest norm and standards in democracy, human rights and supremacy of law for its people," he noted. "Within this framework, we expect the EU to re-accomplish the courageous vision of its founders and show the determination of including Turkey in the union as a full member. EU, embodying Turkey would undoubtedly be well-equipped against regional and global tests. I celebrate Europe Day in hope of reaching more prosperous days in the upcoming period," Erdogan said.