EU path is Turkey’s struggle for modernisation

Irtemcelik met with representatives of Turkish students associations in Turkish Consulate General in Cologne.

Addressing representatives of students, Irtemcelik said, "in fact there is no need to explain EU issue to you. EU issue is the very big struggle of Turkey for modernization. Turkey’s struggle to enter EU has an equal value with walking on the path of Ataturk. We know from the beginning that our path is uphill. I do not say this to dissuade you or to make you pessimistic. Achieving the difficult brings more pleasure and we will certainly experience this pleasure."

Noting that Turkish associations had responsibilities in this issue, Irtemcelik said that the associations could be more active locally or federally and they should be organized for this.

Irtemcelik said that German people had uneasiness stemming from some prejudices regarding Turkey’s EU membership. He said that there were some negative propaganda. He added that Turkey would continue its struggle in a determined manner.