Turkey

Officially the Republic of Turkey is a parliamentary republic largely located in Western Asia with the portion of Eastern Thrace in Southeastern Europe . Turkey is a member of the UN, NATO,OECD, OSCE, OIC and the G-20. After becoming one of the first members of the Council of Europe in 1949, Turkey became an associate member of the EEC in 1963, joined the EU Customs Union in 1995. Turkey's growing economy and diplomatic initiatives have led to its recognition as a regional power.

Turkey started accession talks to the EU on 3 October 2005. Turkey could complete negotiations in 10-15 years, but progress has been very slow, as the EU is divided over whether Turkey should join at all.

Currency: Turkish lira

Population: 74.9 Million