Abdullah Gul delivered the opening speech of the new legislative year at the Turkish parliament on Wednesday.

"It is natural that the Turkish economy, integrated into the global economy, may get affected by the recent global developments. We can turn Turkey into a secure island where investments can take place as long as we keep our home in good order through reforms," Gul said.

Gul began his speech by wishing the Turkish deputies and citizens a happy Ramadan Feast.

"We live in a world where the balance of powers are getting re-shaped. Global cooperation and opportunities for development take place at the same time with tensions and crisis," Gul said.

"We are passing through a period when uncertainties can not be even described and when a feeling of insecurity is being experienced. In addition to chronic regional problems, the recent conflict in the Caucasus, serious fluctuations in the price of food and energy and shocks in international financial markets are all results of the uncertainty," Gul stressed.

"While meeting the leaders of many nations at the United Nations last week, I have noticed that the leaders are busy in dealing with matters I have listed above. In our meetings with the representatives of around 200 countries, we have seen that we share the same notions on the need for collective measures in dealing with hunger, poverty, diseases and climate change," Gul said.

"Monitoring the global developments closely and contributing to the solution process is important for Turkey's national interests and is a part of Turkey's international obligations. I have observed (at the United Nations) that the international community is pleased with Turkey's contributions and expect more from Turkey," Gul noted.

"We have to speed up Turkey's EU membership process with an effective foreign policy and a wide agreement in the society," Gul said.

"The modernization process in Turkey, initiated by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk in the early 20th century, continues to inspire us all in the 21st century," Gul said.

"With this understanding and as we proceed towards the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey, it should be the responsibility of all of us to carry Turkey to the point it deserves," Gul said.

"We are obliged to use our knowledge and experiences to become a more respected state and be a society of richer and free individuals," Gul said.

"As is indicated in our long term growth strategy, Turkey should be one of the most strongest 10 economies of the world in the year 2023, the date that marks the 100th anniversary of the foundation of the Republic of Turkey," Gul underscored.

"It should be the priority of the Turkish society to continue EU negotiations in a healthy manner," Gul said.

The success of negotiations depends on the reform process and an understanding above all political parties in Turkey, Gul said.

"Steps to be taken in political criteria should not be perceived as merely changes in regulations. Such steps should bring about a change in the way we think," Gul said.

"Within this framework, individual rights and freedoms should be under wide protection. Democratic understanding should prevail in the implementation of laws," Gul said.

"The judicial reform foreseen will not only increase the democratic standards in Turkey but will also contribute to stability and transparency," Gul stressed.

"Turkey's national program, on the way to full EU membership, should be shaped up by the contribution of all Turks," Gul said.

The new constitutional arrangements in Turkey should strengthen national unity and societal solidarity and should embrace all, Gul said.

"I have no doubt that the Turkish parliament will reach constitutional amendments with the participation of all political parties and all segments of the Turkish society," Gul said.

We must answer the challenges of the 21st century by mutual confidence and democratic tolerance, Gul said.

I wish the Turkish parliament a successful legislative year and salute you all with respect, Gul also said.

Following Abdullah Gul's speech, Speaker of Turkish parliament Koksal Toptan closed the session. The parliament would convene on Tuesday, October 7.

AA