Miliband backs Turkish EU bid
Turkey's efforts to join the European Union have been publicly backed by the British foreign secretary.
David Miliband is currently accompanying the Queen and Prince Philip on the first royal state visit to the country in 37 years.
Speaking at a press conference with his Turkish counterpart, he said the British government is in favour of the nation becoming a member of the international body.
He commented: "We want to be allies of Turkey inside the European Union and not just proponents of a better dialogue between the European Union and Turkey."
The country has been aiming to join the international body for the last two decades, although some member states including France have expressed their opposition to the move.
However, the UK has consistently expressed its support for Turkey's efforts to become a member state.
This was reinforced earlier this week when Queen Elizabeth II said the prospect of joining the European Union has already helped to "inspire changes" that are improving the lives of Turkey's citizens.
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