U.S. and E.U. Unite For Cyprus

Weston also met with E.U. High Representative, Javier Solana, where he conveyed the U.S. Cyprus policy to Brussels. Weston reiterated strong U.S. support for Turkey’s E.U. membership.

After meeting with Verheugen, Weston gave an interview to Zaman. Weston said they only talked about Cyprus and revealed that a very strong agreement came out of the meeting.

Pointing out that the U.S. and the E.U. agree that Cyprus talks should start immediately, Weston said: "Both the U.S. and the E.U. want the conditions set by U.N. Secretary-General Annan for resuming discussions to be set. After that, we want discussions to resume immediately and to reach a solution before the membership commencement of Cyprus on May 1."

We never miss an opportunity to demonstrate our support of Turkey

The U.S. administration once again confirmed its support of Turkey to the E.U. before Prodi’s historical visit. "You can trust the U.S. on this subject. Turkey’s membership is, of course, not our job; however, we give our support at every opportunity. I did so with my visit," said Weston.

He stated that with a solution in Cyprus and fulfillment of the Copenhagen Criteria, discussions should start in December 2004.