The European Union agreed - as expected - to begin formal talks on the introduction of Turkey to the EU, as from October 2005.

Significant political strings were attached, however - namely, that Turkey must recognise Cyprus before talks begin.

While smaller European countries, such as Netherlands, welcomed the move, politicians in France and Germany are looking nervously at how a Muslim country joining the EU might be viewed by their own populations.

The current head of the European Commission, Jose Manuel Barroso, stated, “Today is also a new beginning for Europe and for Turkey… This is not the end of the process. This is the beginning.”

However, Jaques Chirac of France stressed that it could be 15 years before Turkey is able to join, and that “entry cannot be guaranteed.”

To add to the pressure, France and Austria have both stated their intention to hold a referendum on the issue.

Tags: European Union News //