The European Parliament believes the the Commission should recommend that the accession negotiations with Turkey be formally suspended.

In recent years, the Government of Turkey has distanced itself increasingly from EU values and standards. As a result, relations have been brought to a historic low point, warned MEPs, who were particularly concerned about the state of the rule of law and respect for fundamental rights.

In the report adopted on Wednesday, May 19, they insist that if Turkey does not reverse this current negative trend, the Commission should recommend that the accession negotiations be formally suspended.

However, MEPs reaffirmed their conviction that Turkey is a key partner for stability in the wider region, and said they acknowledge the EU’s ongoing diplomatic efforts for a true and effective dialogue with the country.