"Turkey and EU can face serious obstacles. We intend to achieve our goals and become full members of the EU. We have been working hard during these five years and have made greater success than during previous fifty years," said Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

"Not all are confident in advantages of Turkey's accession. I say to those most restrained: think broadly. Bravery and efforts are essential for getting rid of prejudices. Both Turkey and Europe will benefit in this case. Turkey's accession is a part European Union's global vision," he said.

He said Turkey and EU should go on cooperating. "We have a long way to pass. Turkey is facing serious challenges. But European leaders should keep in mind that support of the Turkish public is the fundamental factor. They should send encouraging signals to maintain the public support. Certainly, it doesn't mean that we don't care about the terms," Erdogan said.