The conclusions of the EU General Affairs Council on enlargement and in this regard on Turkey-EU relations including our accession process to the EU have been issued yesterday (11 December 2012).

The conclusions emphasize the importance attached to EU’s relations with Turkey and state that Turkey is a candidate country and a key partner for the EU considering its dynamic economy and strategic location. It is also expressed that active and credible accession negotiations will enable the Turkey-EU relationship to achieve its full potential. In this respect, we share the view that it is in the interest of both parties that accession negotiations regain momentum. We also attach importance to intensified regular political dialogue between Turkey and the EU which is welcomed in the conclusions.

The acknowledgement of Turkey’s commitment to the political reform agenda as well as the main steps taken in this context, including the work on a new constitution are also important. There should be no doubt that our reforms will continue in a determined manner to further improve the standards of living of our citizens.

Combating terrorism is another item on our agenda with the EU. As stated in the conclusions of the General Affairs Council, it is important that the EU and its member states act in full solidarity with Turkey. Furthering our cooperation in confronting this common threat is essential.

Visa exemption to our citizens entering the EU countries is a principal expectation. The only candidate country whose citizens do not enjoy visa free travel to the EU is Turkey. We hope that the EU takes the necessary steps to remedy this unfair situation without further delay. In this context, the “road map” which will be delivered to us by the EU will be studied. On the other hand, it is not understandable that the EU links this issue with the signing of the Readmission Agreement between Turkey and the EU in relation to illegal migrants and requires its implementation in advance. Presenting Turkey as a country of origin with regard to illegal migration is also in contradiction with reality. Turkey is a country situated on the route of illegal migration and one that fights against it. We will continue our dialogue with the EU in these areas.

The part of the conclusions concerning Cyprus is yet another demonstration that the EU has become a party in this issue. Our views on this matter were repeatedly shared with the EU on various occasions, including in our statement on the Commission’s Turkey 2012 Progress Report. The Greek Cypriot illegitimate membership to the EU also constitutes a serious shortcoming for efforts towards a comprehensive settlement on the Island. We expect that, in the future, the EU acts with common sense and foresight on this problem. The current situation is not in the interest of anyone, the Greek Cypriot Administration included.

We aim at preserving and carrying forward our relations with the EU which are multidimensional and deep-rooted, and have approximately 50 years of history. With a view to achieving this fundamental strategic choice, we expect the EU, in line with its existing commitments, to take steps that would serve our common interests and create renewed momentum in our accession process.