EU faces a historical exam in 2004

Speaking at morning session of an international conference on "There Won’t be Clash of Civilizations" organized by the European Mediterranean Forum at the UNESCO building in Paris, France, Sever said that as an Islamic country, Turkey undertook a historical mission of fulfilling both democracy and secularism successfully so also the Islamic world closely monitored the decision that the EU would make.

"Opening of membership negotiations will be a message that creates positive effects not only for Turkey but also for all other countries. Similarly, a negative decision creates a deep disappointment for both Turkey and the region. With this respect, the EU should be aware of its responsibilities and treat Turkey fairly," he said.

Stressing that the ailing relationship between the West and Islam was one of the most serious problems of today’s world, Sever said that healthy relationship between the West and Islam could be established via Turkey.

Noting that the Turkish government had recorded great reforms in a short time, Sever said that the EU’s saying ‘no’ to a Turkey which had fulfilled membership criteria would be a message that could not be repaired with respect to dialogue among civilizations.

EU Commission Representative for regional policies Michel Barnier, former Interior Minister of France Charles Pasqua and former Chief of General Staff of France Jacques Lanxade attended the session as speakers.