Washington supports Turkey's EU bid

The United States Vice-President, Al Gore, has reiterated America's support for the integration of Turkey into European political structures.

He was speaking after a meeting at the White House between President Clinton and the Turkish Prime Minister, Mesut Yilmaz.

Following the talks, Mr Yilmaz spoke of what he called a total convergence of views on the topics discussed.

His visit to Washington comes as the dispute continues between the European Union and Ankara over the EU's refusal to add Turkey's name to a list of potential candidates for membership.

A BBC correspondent in Washington says the United States is anxious that Turkey, which is a key member of NATO, maintains its close ties to Europe.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service