In Zagreb, Gul reirerates Turkey's determination for EU membership

President Abdullah Gul yesterday met with his Croatian counterpart Stepan Mesic in Zagreb, Croatia. Speaking to reporters afterwards, Gul said that countries with large populations and economies have naturally faced hurdles to European Union accession, and sometimes political issues are exploited during this process. Stating that Turkey's strategy on EU membership is very clear, he added, "Our negotiation process will continue with determination and patience." Touching on investment possibilities between the two countries, Gul said that Turkish businessmen are very eager to invest in Croatia, adding, "We can cooperate in tourism, the hotel sector and energy." Afterwards, Gul visited historical sites in Zagreb, and then attended a Turkish-Croatian Business Council meeting. Speaking at the gathering, Gul said that Turkey's aim in the EU process is full membership, adding, "Turkey is determined to complete the negotiation process in due time." For his part, Mesic said that Croatia is following developments in Turkey with interest and that political will is strengthening economic ties between the two countries.