I will mention our gratitude to Britain for support extended to Turkey's EU membership, says President Gul

ANKARA (A.A) - Turkish President Abdullah Gul said Sunday that he would mention Turkey's gratitude to Britain for the support extended to Turkey's European Union (EU) membership. Speaking to reporters prior to his departure from Ankara's Esenboga International Airport for Britain, President Gul said that he would also mention the importance Turkey attached to Britain's support in overcoming artificial political obstacles that Turkey had to face during accession talks. President Gul said that he was being accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Ali Babacan, Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, Deputy Chief of General Staff Gen. Hulusi Akar, deputies, academicians and journalists. President Gul's trip takes place at an invitation by Queen Elizabeth II. Our relations with ally and strategic partner Britain are in their golden age, Gul also said. The Gul couple will begin their official trip on Tuesday at an invitation by Queen Elizabeth II. They will stay at the Buckingham Palace. President Gul and Mrs. Hayrunnisa Gul will be welcomed to Britain with an official ceremony. They will attend a luncheon and dinner to be hosted by Queen Elizabeth II. As part of his talks in London, President Gul will meet British Prime Minister David Cameron, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs William Jefferson Hague and Mayor of London Boris Johnson. Gul will deliver speeches at various occasions, including the British Parliament. Gul will be the first Turkish President to visit Britain in 23 years.