Parliament Speaker Anna Benaki-Psarouda and Irish President Mary McAleese on Monday discussed Turkey's European prospects, the issue of Cyprus and the future of the European constitution in the framework of the former's official visit to Ireland. A coincidence of views was ascertained on all three issues.

On the issue of Turkey's European prospects, the two politicians agreed that Turkey must fulfill its commitments towards the European Union, the full implementation of the customs union with Cyprus in the near future and then the recognition of the Republic of Cyprus "without which Turkey's accession is inconceivable."

As regards the issue of Cyprus, McAleese and Benaki-Psarouda agreed that "the maintenance of the last wall dividing a European capital, Nicosia, is unacceptable."
At this point, the Irish president expressed support for the UN's efforts to resolve the problem.

Focusing on the third issue, the two interlocutors stressed the need for a solution to be found "since the European constitution is essential for the EU's smooth functioning in the future."

Source: Athens News Agency

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