Ankara expresses ire at European Parliament report
The annual report of the European Parliament (EP) which, among other things, states that if the Turkish government does not drastically change its course, the process of Turkey’s accession to the EU cannot continue under the present conditions, has drawn an irate response from Ankara.
Turkey’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the report’s “baseless allegations,” while Akif Cagatay Kilic, the diplomatic adviser to Turkey’s president, said it is “unacceptable.”
The MEPs confirm that Turkey remains a candidate for EU membership, a NATO ally and a key partner but called on Ankara to respect the principles and obligations of the EU.
It condemned the start of illegal construction works by the Turkish occupying forces near the village of Pyla, in Cyprus, and the attacks on UN peacekeepers in August.
It also said no significant progress has been made in protecting the rights of minorities, including those on Imbros and Tenedos, while noting concern regarding Hagia Sophia and Chora Monastery Museum.
Reference was also made to the reopening of the Theological School of Halki.
