THE WHITE HOUSE: Statement by the President >T.

0 Comments | M2 Presswire, December, 1999

M2 PRESSWIRE-14 December 1999-THE WHITE HOUSE: Office of the Press Secretary -- Statement by the President (C)1994-99 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD RDATE:111299 It is with great pleasure that I welcome the European Union's offer on Friday to Turkey -- and Turkey's acceptance -- of EU candidate status.

The United States has long supported Turkey's bid to join the EU, in the belief that this would have lasting benefits not only for Turkey, but also for all EU members and the United States. On Friday, the EU and Turkey took a big step toward bringing that goal to fruition. I would like to congratulate Turkish Prime Minister Ecevit for his government's decision to accept the EU offer. Under Mr. Ecevit, Turkey has launched an impressive array of political, economic,...