Merkel: We need to implement the dialogue agenda with Turkey quickly

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the agenda of the dialogue with Turkey should be implemented quickly in order to advance co-operation on common interests in the European Union., transmits Anadolu Agency (AA).

In a speech to the federal parliament ahead of the EU Leaders Summit, Merkel called on the Council and the European Commission to present proposals for taking steps to form partnerships with key countries on the issue of migration.

"In addition, we expect the EC to present a concrete proposal for financing migration cooperation that the EU has made with Turkey.", stressed Merkel, who recalled that they are in Turkey 3.7 millions of registered Syrians.

"It is clear that the current and future problems of migration can only be resolved in dialogue with Turkey.. Just like we agreed in March, "As the EU, we need to quickly implement the agenda of the dialogue with Turkey in order to advance cooperation on common interests.", said Merkel.

Merkel stressed that in addition to advancing the modernization of the Customs Union, issues such as health should also be discussed in talks with Turkey, climate protection and the fight against terrorism. She added that strategic co-operation should be advanced, although there are divisions of opinion with Turkey on rule of law and implementation of fundamental rights..

- The EU seeks to hold direct talks with Russia

Chancellor Merkel announced that the EU Summit will also discuss relations related to Russia and that it is not enough to respond without coordination of member states to Russia's provocations..

Merkel called for mechanisms to be developed to provide a common response to these provocations. "Only in this way will we learn to respond to Russia's hybrid attacks.", she added.

Stressing that at the same time the agenda of common strategic interests with Russia should be defined, Merkel informs EU seeks to establish direct contacts with Russia and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

She said US President Joe Biden's conversation with Putin was not enough and that the EU should form a negotiation format.. Merkel emphasizes that disputes can not be resolved otherwise. /aa