EU Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso said on Thursday that full democracy and 'democratic secularism' was needed in Turkey in order to become a full EU member.

Barroso on AKP's closure case - 09 / 05 / 2008 08:12

European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso said on Thursday that full democracy and "democratic secularism" was needed in Turkey in order to become a full EU member and added that secularism can not be imposed.

Speaking at a session on the future of Europe at the 11th Europe Forum in Slovenia, Barroso said his message during his visit to Turkey last month was very clear.

Upon a question at the session, Barroso said he returned from Turkey with concerns, adding he was convinced that Turkey should be brought closer to EU.

He said EU had concerns over the recent developments in Turkey, citing the closure case filed against the ruling Justice & Development (AK) Party.

He said such a case was not common and it was also controversial over the fundamental principles of state's organization.

Barroso said EU should continue negotiations with Turkey in a fair way, adding that failure of fair negotiations could be disappointing for people struggling for freedom of thought and Turkey's membership to the union.