The Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded to the Turkey Report published by the European Commission as part of its 2026 Enlargement Package with a written statement. The Ministry rejected the assessments in the report concerning political criteria as well as the judiciary and fundamental rights, characterizing them as "baseless allegations."
The statement argued that the report reflects the European Union's "prejudiced and unfair" stance toward Turkey. The Ministry stated, "These accusations are a reflection of the double-standard approach and the inconsistent, discredited mindset of certain EU officials."
EMPHASIS ON THE EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN AND CYPRUS
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the report defends the arguments of Greece and the Greek Cypriot side while ignoring the legitimate rights and interests of Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The statement noted that as long as the EU unconditionally adopts the position of the Greek Cypriot side on the Cyprus issue, it cannot contribute to resolution efforts.
The Ministry further asserted that the assessments regarding the Eastern Mediterranean are contrary to international law and the principle of equity. It was also stated that the remarks concerning the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Turkey and Libya have no validity.
The statement indicated that some findings in the report were welcomed. It was noted that references to Turkey's progress in economic and monetary policy, its well-functioning market economy, its capacity to cope with competitive pressures, and its role in the field of defense and security were considered significant.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that economic and trade data support the expectation for the modernization of the Customs Union. The statement noted that Turkey-EU relations should be shaped on the basis of common interests and a long-term vision rather than "narrow political calculations."
The Ministry stated that the expectation from the EU is for the recently increased dialogue to be transformed into concrete decisions that will strengthen Turkey's membership perspective, adding that it is ready to advance relations on the basis of mutual trust, respect, and equity.
News Source: 12punto
