Karamanlis refers to full normalisation of Greek-Turkish relations as 'primary goal'

    Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis had a one-hour meeting here with Turkish Premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of a Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organisation (BSEC) summit meeting, held to mark the 15th anniversary of the entity's founding.

   

    Karamanlis said wished his Turkish counterpart success in the imminent elections in Turkey.

   

    In terms of complicated bilateral relations, Karamanlis stressed that a total normalisation of Greek-Turkish relations still constitutes a primary objective. The Greek prime minister stated that other talks touched on likely positive consequences stemming from previously agreed confidence building measures (CBMs), while he again underlined that all actions in contrivance with international law or ones that can possible cause tensions should be avoided.

   

    Moreover, Karamanlis emphasised that a comprehensive, fair and viable solution based on UN and EU resolutions would contribute to the wider region's stability and growth.

   

    In terms of EU-Turkey relations, Karamanlis reiterated Greece's firm support for Ankara's European prospects under the condition that all of the Union's prerequisites be met. "I also again told Mr. Erdogan that Greece supports the continuing reforms process and efforts by the Turkish government."

   

    Additionally, Karamanlis referred to progress made in bilateral relations, particularly in the sectors of trade, transports, tourism and energy.

   

    He also thanked his counterpart for the hospitality by the Turkish side and praised the impeccable hosting of the BSEC summit, terming it as a successful institution that enjoys the interest of both Athens and Ankara.

   

    Erdogan

   

    On his part, the Turkish prime minister stated that he had a very good discussion with his Greek counterpart on issues concerning the European Union and Greece's support towards Turkey's EU accession efforts.

   

    He also thanked Karamanlis for Greece's support to Turkey's European course, adding that they also referred to the opening of the chapters in Turkey's EU accession process.

   

    "We support a fair and lasting solution in Cyprus", Erdogan said, stressing that the following period will be more productive.

   

   

    In a related development, Karamanlis is scheduled to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin later on Monday afternoon in Istanbul.

   

    Caption: Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis (L) shakes hands with Turkish Premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan (R) during their meeting at the Ciragan Palace in Istanbul, Turkey, 25 June 2007. ANA-MPA/EPA/ O. CILESIZ

   

   

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