Gonul meets with visiting British Defence Secretary Fox

Meeting with British Defence Secretary Liam Fox on Monday, Defense Minister Vecdi Gonul thanked him for Britain's support for Turkey's European Union bid. At a special ceremony at the Defense Ministry in Fox's honor, he greeted the welcoming committee by saying, "Hello soldiers," in Turkish. The meeting was closed to the press. Gonul told a joint press conference afterwards that he was happy to welcome such an important official from an important country, and that the two spoke of mutual issues during the meeting, including industrial and military cooperation and trade. Turkey and Britain plan to expand cooperation in the future, he said, adding that he was pleased to see London's support on sensitive matters. Fox also said he was pleased to be in Turkey, calling it a friend, partner and ally, and added that the two countries need to work on a foundation of peace for a joint future. "Turkey is one of our most important allies," said Fox. "We have a very strong friendship. We have a shared history. And more importantly, we have mutual interests." He added, about their work in Afghanistan, "We thank Turkey for its support to the alliance. We are happy with the Turkish forces in Kabul. It is an example that many other countries need to follow. We would be at a more positive point if all NATO allies showed the same commitment." Fox also stated, "We have always supported Turkey's membership in the European Union. [EU membership] is inevitably the path Turkey is on if you look at the progress throughout the last few years … We have to be more persistent to overcome obstacles in the way of Turkey's destiny. You are tirelessly working toward this, and we hope to one day be a part of the same family of countries."