Straw welcomes prospect of EU membership talks with Turkey

Wednesday, 6 October 2004 12:00 AM

Foreign Secretary Jack Straw has warmly welcomed the European Commission's recommendation that accession talks should begin with Turkey - subject to Turkey meeting strict conditions.

But, for negotiations to start, the European Council must endorse the decision. It is scheduled to meet in December this year.

Turkey's potential membership of the European Union is a subject of much controversy within the European movement. Some argue that the accession of a large, predominately Muslim state, with many roots in Asia, would fundamentally change the nature of the EU. Others argue that the admittance of Turkey would send a powerful signal that the Muslim and Western worlds can work together in harmony.

Today the European Commission recommended that formal accession talks with Turkey be opened. This though is a "qualified yes" contingent on reform, improved human rights and an assessment of the economic impact of membership. Also included is the possibility that freedom of movement within the EU would not be extended to Turkish citizens.

Speaking today, Mr Straw said: "The Commission's report has given a clear and positive signal that Turkey has met the Copenhagen political criteria. Turkey has undergone remarkable changes over the last few years, putting in place the extensive reforms the EU asked of it.

"The EU must now deliver its side of the bargain. The European Council should agree in December to open negotiations without delay."

The report from the Commission finds that Turkey has "substantially progressed in its political reform process, in particular by means of far-reaching constitutional and legislative changes adopted over the last years" but points out that not all of these have yet entered into legislative force.

It also calls for a broadening of the effort to improve human rights legislation, particularly on freedom of expression, freedom of religion, women's rights and a zero tolerance policy on torture.

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