EU recognizes Turkey's important regional role

The European Union has acknowledged "the important regional role of Turkey and its active involvement in its wider neighbourhood and welcomes the intensification of the regular political dialogue between the EU and Turkey. " The EU General Affairs Council which met in Brussels Tuesday in a statement last night said "the EU remains committed to the further enhancement of the existing political dialogue with Turkey on foreign policy issues of common interest, such as the developments in North Africa, the Syrian crisis and the Middle East, the Gulf, the Western Balkans, Afghanistan/Pakistan, the Southern Caucasus and the Horn of Africa." "The Council recognises Turkey's role on Syria, in particular with regard to support provided to Syrians fleeing violence across the border," noted the statement. The Council recalled that Turkey's dynamic economy provides a contribution to the prosperity of the whole European continent. Turkey is a candidate country and a key partner for the European Union considering its dynamic economy and strategic location, stressed the statement. A number of EU foreign ministers and foreign secretaries attended the General Affairs Council which among other isues discussed the EU enlargement policy.