Gul, Erdogan issue a message on the occasion of Europe Day

President Abdullah Gul has said mutual efforts on the part of both Turkey and the union is required for Turkey’s membership in the European Union, in a message released for Europe Day. "Turkey’s membership in the EU relies on Turkey’s sincere efforts together with the union’s determination to keep its pledges and a constructive attitude," noted in his message. On the occasion of Europe Day on May 9, Gul defined that day as a celebration of peace, stability and welfare on the European continent of which Turkey is politically, economically, historically and culturally a part and wished all European peoples a happy Europe Day. The president furthermore recalled that Turkey made big sacrifices in the past to defend freedom, including a free Europe, and to protect all values belonging to all nations. However, he said, some movements feeding on xenophobia, racism and Islamophobia pose threat to the values of Europe. "I sincerely hope that Europe will prevent the threat of these movements gaining more ground before they lead the EU to collapse in on itself, doing irreparable damage to universal values," the president stated. According to Gul, Turkey is increasing its efforts for harmonization of its legislation in an attempt to fulfill the Copenhagen criteria for becoming a full member of the EU, adding that some reforms undertaken recently in the political and judicial arena have helped the construction of a more democratic, more prosperous and stronger Turkey. The president also said Turkey’s full membership in the EU will "add dynamism" in all fields to the 27-nation bloc. "Turkey’s membership will certainly increase the strength of the EU in the international arena, including in the fields of economy, energy, foreign policy and security. It will also pose a unique opportunity to gain acceptance for the EU’s values and its future role in a wider area of the world," he added.