Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan declared Friday that it is up to Turkey to decide the timing and pace of its reforms "since a date has not been set for Turkey's membership to the EU."

Babacan hosted a breakfast at Ankara's Swissotel in honor of the ambassadors of EU-member and candidate countries on the occasion of May 9 Europe Day.

Speaking at the breakfast, Babacan said, "today's Europe is an area of peace and stability. However, conditions in the 21st century entail the Union to adopt a wider vision."

He stressed Turkey's target is to become a full member of the EU. "Therefore, we expect the Union to display a stimulative attitude in the negotiation process instead of creating political obstacles," he said.

"The EU process has made Turkey a more foreseeable country. Since a date has not been set for Turkey's membership to the EU, it is Turkey's own initiative when and how to make reforms. Whenever our membership date/timetable becomes clear, we can then display a different stance," Babacan added.