Strengthening London's Turkish links - attaché visits Islington Council

12.00.00am GMT Mon 2nd Feb 2004

Meral Ece, Laura Willoughby and Sarah Ludford welcome Turkish Attache Izzet Giritlioglu.

London's Lib Dem MEP Baroness Sarah Ludford met with Turkish employment and social affairs attache Izzet Giritlioglu last Friday, as he visited the London Borough of Islington to learn about the Council's relations with the Turkish community in the borough, and its provision of services to Turkish residents.

She joined Islington Council Executive members Councillors Meral Ece and Laura Willoughby.

Said Sarah:

"As Turkey works towards EU membership, it is important that we learn more about and from each other. The Turkish, Turkish Cypriot and Kurdish communities make a vital and vibrant contribution to life in Islington."

"I hope to be able to work with Mr Giritlioglu to encourage exchange schemes between our countries, and I will investigate possibilities of EU funding for such projects."

"EU enlargement is a great opportunity to increase peace and prosperity, though unfortunately it generates some misunderstanding in the UK. Working more closely together will help us to tackle ignorance and allow us to establish in London respect and equal opportunity for all Londoners."

Cllr Willoughby added:

"Islington's diverse population is a source of strength for our Borough and, through the services we provide and the opportunities we create we must ensure that every Islington resident can contribute to their wider community.

"This visit was an excellent opportunity to share best practice and strengthen community links."

Cllr Ece concluded:

"Mr Giritlioglu has particular responsibility for employment and social affairs and this was an extremely valuable visit, allowing us to share our experiences as Turkey makes progress towards EU membership and providing real chances to establish better links with communities here in London and in Turkey.

"The Turkish community in Islington makes a highly valued contribution to our Borough and I hope that through forging such links we can continue to benefit from such diversity."