Turkish FM expects new momentum in EU reforms after local elections

Babacan also rejected claims that Turkey had lost "appetite" for membership in the 27-member bloc.Â

"It is quite normal and natural that there may be ups and downs in this process. Our determination for EU membership remains intact and I expect a new momentum in the reforms process after the local elections (in Turkey)," Babacan was quoted by the Anatolian Agency as telling in a televised interview.

An EU report on Turkey's progress recently criticized the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), claiming that it had slowed down reforms needed to become a member of the EU.

The EU opened entry talks with Turkey in 2005, but there has been little progress amid disagreements over Cyprus and opposition from France, which took over the bloc's presidency from Slovenia on July 1 for six months, among other EU countries, including Austria and Germany.

TURKISH PRES, PM TO VISIT BRUSSELS
Babacan said Turkish President Abdullah Gul was scheduled to pay a formal visit to Brussels soon, adding that Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan was also planning one.

The Turkish foreign minister also said he expected that a number of "serious steps would be taken sooner or later" for a major overhaul of the Turkish Constitution.

Babacan held Wednesday talks with EU Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn in Brussels, where he attended the NATO Foreign Ministers' Meeting.