Turkey is an EU candidate for EU membership country that has undertaken obligations towards every EU member state, including the Republic of Cyprus, which include normalization, recognition and contribution to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Raouna, said on Tuesday.

Raouna made a doorstep statement upon arrival to the informal General Affairs Council in Copenhagen and replied to a question about Turkey’s participation as a candidate country in the Council, pointing out that this is the perfect opportunity to convey this clear message to Turkey as EU.

The Deputy Minister said that the discussion will focus on enlargement, the Copenhagen criteria and the gradual integration process for candidate countries, on strengthening the rule of law toolbox and on the future of Europe.

Regarding enlargement, she stressed that it is a geopolitical necessity and a catalyst as it concerns the expansion of the security and protection area.

The first part of the works of the Council will be attended by Ministers from the candidate and potential candidate countries for accession, and the second will be attended only by the member states.

The Council will conclude with a working lunch and a discussion on the future of Europe.