The Turkish President, Suleyman Demirel, has said he hopes to start a fresh dialogue with the new German government of Gerhard Schroeder.

President Demirel said the two countries must commit themselves to what he called the goal of a great Europe, with more well-being, stability and democracy.

His comments follow a statement by Mr Schroeder on Thursday which promised all necessary assistance in bringing Turkey closer to Europe.

Relations between Turkey and the previous German government of Helmut Kohl became increasingly strained, with Turkey accusing Chancellor Kohl's government of blocking its candidature for membership of the European Union.