His statement came as the EU's enlargement commissioner, Stefan Fule, was in Ankara.

ECONOMIST: The Turkish government

The Commissioner for EU Neighbourhood Policy Stefan Fule told MEPs that any future "enhanced status" for Tunisia on trade relations had to ensure greater protection of fundamental rights.

BBC: EU accused of lack of action on Tunisia

Speaking on behalf of the EU's foreign affairs representative , Stefan Fule said the Ukraine must redress the "systemic problem" of "selective justice", conduct free and fair elections and resume delayed reforms before it can become a closer EU ally.

BBC: MEPs debate the situation in Ukraine