EU Commissioner in membership talks with Turkey

EU Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn met with Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul today to discuss the historic start of Turkey’s membership talks with the European Union.

The two met at Gul’s official residence in Ankara and were expected to make a statement later in the day.

EU leaders have emphasised Turkey’s entry into the European Union is neither guaranteed nor automatic, despite the start of entry talks on Monday.

Entry will depend on Turkey’s meeting EU criteria and the ability of Europe to absorb the poor, predominantly Muslim nation. Membership talks are expected to last 10 to 15 years.