"An important goal for Turkey is to be included in the TTIP process. The modernization of our customs union will deepen our European integration and economic relations between Turkey and the European Union", Zeybekchi told reporters at a joint press-conference with EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom.
PHOTOS: press briefing by @MalmstromEU & @ZeybekciNihat More photos: http://t.co/wycEnDxc02 pic.twitter.com/rcVi833Agv
— EC AV Services (@EC_AVService) 12 мая 2015
Today we take an important step to deepen EUTurkey trade relations. Agreed with minister Zeybekci to start upgrading our old customs union
— Cecilia Malmström (@MalmstromEU) 12 мая 2015
Ankara ultimately seeks to join the TTIP, Zeybekchi said, adding that he hopes to make further statements on the issue in the near future.
According to Malmstrom, the question of Turkey becoming part of the proposed free trade zone was discussed during a meeting earlier in the day.
VIDEO: press briefing by @MalmstromEU & @ZeybekciNihat http://t.co/8bX02YDsN6 cc: @AvbirDT @Trade_EU @EU_Commission
— EC AV Services (@EC_AVService) 12 мая 2015
"Right now, negotiations on the TTIP are underway between us [EU] and the United States. When the agreement is signed, Turkey will be able to join. But it will be necessary, of course, to discuss the conditions. We support it, but negotiations must first be concluded."
The planned EU-US free trade deal has sparked much controversy in Europe, with thousands-strong protests taking place in several EU member states over the last few months.
Opponents of the TTIP argue that the deal is undemocratic and will strip elected governments of some of their powers, opening them up to litigation from major corporations.
