"We have not yet decided whether Turkey should become an European Union member. Also, I do not think that at this moment Turkey is ready to become a member, nor are we ready to take on Turkey as a member. The final decision over full membership will be given in light of the results from the ongoing talks. And we need time for this," head of the EU Commission Jose Manuel Barroso stated to the German "Focus" magazine. Responding to a question about newly elected French President Nicolas Sarkozy's statements in connection to possibly forestalling the new EU talks meant to open next month with Turkey, Barroso said that respect must be shown to promises made in the past. "There was a united vote made to start up talks with Turkey," Barroso underscored.