European Commission: Turkey has made progress in reform

PanARMENIAN.Net - "Turkey has made progress in aligning with the acquit in many areas. But at the same time, it is clear that the reform process has slowed down in the last years," the European Commission rapporteur on Turkey, Ms. Ria Oomen-Ruijten said in Brussels November 6.



"For example, no progress was made with the problems faced by religious minorities. Furthermore, there has been no progress towards normalization of bilateral relations with the Republic of Cyprus. Turkey has overcome the political and constitutional crisis after the July-elections, fully in line with international standards and the rule of law. The Government has to use its strong mandate to make the necessary reforms. The Parliament expects the new Turkish Government to accelerate the process of reforms in order to remain a credible partner in the negotiation process," she said.



"The planned reform of the Turkish Constitution is in my view crucial. I hope the reforms will be the subject of a wide public debate and that an overall consensus in Parliament will be reached. A new Constitution is vital to secure a democratic state. I refer to the repeal of Article 301 of the Penal Code and other legal provisions allowing for arbitrary restrictions on the expression of non-violent opinions, a guarantee for freedom of expression and freedom of the press, and the adoption of a Law on Foundations that ensures religious freedom", Oomen-Ruijten concluded.



Commenting on the annual report on the progress of Turkey towards EU accession, presented by the European Commission today, Dutch Green MEP and Chairman of the Turkey-EU delegation Joost Lagendijk said: "The Commission also underlines that Turkish membership is of key strategic importance for the EU, forming a unique connection between the west and the Muslim world. For this reason the EU must keep its promise and not make it more difficult for Turkey. At the same time, the Turkish government cannot let itself be taken hostage by the PKK and the recent terrorist attacks; it must continue the reform process," ABHABER.com reports.