"We will be discussing how we will be reshaping and restoring our transatlantic relationship," said Greek Foreign Minister George Papanendreou, whose country holds the EU presidency.

He described Powell's decision to come to Brussels, where he was holding talks with EU and NATO foreign ministers, as "a sign of desire of clear and open discussion."

"We want to see a strong UN role in all phases of the Iraqi crisis," he added, saying the EU expected "frank and sincere" discussions.

Papandreou also welcomed Turkey's comments, during a visit by Powell to Ankara on Wednesday, about troop deployments in northern Iraq.

"Turkey has made a positive statement by saying it would not get involved in Iraq," said the Greek minister.

Thursday's talks would also focus on the Middle East peace process, he added. Diplomats from so-called Middle East Quartet of the US, the UN, the EU and Russia were due to meet in the sidelines of the EU-NATO talks.

"We want to see the Middle East peace process move forward," Papandreou said.

SPACE.WIRE