Turkey, Bosnia, Serbia expect Balkan countries to united under EU banner

ISTANBUL, April 24 (Xinhua) -- Leaders of Turkey, Bosnia and Serbia Saturday expressed their hope that the Balkan countries would unite under the EU banner in the near future.

Turkish President Abdullah Gul, Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Haris Silajdzic and Serbian President Boris Tadic Saturday held a trilateral summit in Ciragan Palace, Istanbul.

Gul told a joint press conference after the summit that "We are certain that all Balkan countries will unite under the European Union banner in the near future."

"We think this is essential for the stability and security of Balkans," he added.

The Turkish host said the summit was held in a very sincere, clear and friendly atmosphere, and foreign ministers of the countries also participated in the summit.

He also said the leaders decided to meet once every two years in different countries.

Serbian President Boris Tadic said his country supported Bosnia Herzegovina's sovereignty and independence, noting that Serbia would support the latter's bid for the EU membership.

As to the Turkish-Serbian relations, Tadic said the two countries could launch a strategic cooperation and improve their economic ties.

Haris Silajdzic expressed his thanks to the Turkish host for the efforts to establish a lasting peace in the region.

As for his country's EU bid, Silajdzic said "We are trying to achieve all our goals together with the countries around us."