Turkey: Greens/EFA call for positive attitude and further progress in reform process

Commenting on the European Parliament report on reform in Turkey, adopted yesterday, Cem Özdemir, Green MEP and Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, said:

"We welcome the adoption of this rational report, which notes progress that has been made in the reform process in Turkey, and identifies areas - such as the judiciary and gender equality - where further steps and more rapid progress are required.

Reform can only succeed with the majority support of the Turkish population. It is therefore vital for the EU to maintain a positive stance, as well as clear and positive language. Those with an agenda against future Turkish membership of the European Union, both within and outside the country, must not be handed an opportunity to misinterpret EU-Turkish cooperation. In particular it must be made clear that the EU does not take the side of any particular political group within Turkey, but rather calls on all political parties to engage in a reform process geared towards democracy, freedom of expression and respect of minority ethnic and religious groups.

Recent positive developments in Cyprus give cause for optimism, not only for an agreement on the island but also for Turkey to make steps forward in its reform and cooperation with the European Union.

Finally, I reiterate that the perpetrators of Hrant Dink's murder must be brought to justice and the security and living conditions of all journalists and intellectuals in Turkey must be guaranteed.