The progress of EU-Turkish relations in the light of Turkey’s violations of European principles

Question for written answer  E-001832/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Manolis Kefalogiannis (PPE)

On Tuesday, 6 April 2021 Charles Michel, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, will visit Ankara to meet the Turkish President and discuss the progress of EU-Turkish relations.

However, Turkey’s potential withdrawal from the Montreux Convention, its withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention and the attempt to outlaw the pro-Kurdish party HDP are causing considerable unease about whether Turkey, which wishes to join the EU, truly respects the principles of democracy, human and civil rights, the rule of law and international law.

At the recent European Council meeting, the 27 Member States called on Turkey to abstain from renewed provocations or unilateral actions in breach of international law and to demonstrate a constructive position, including bilateral relations with various EU Member States. If it does not do so, the EU will cease its positive approach and will discontinue cooperation measures.

Although Turkey remains an accession country, it is still failing to respect Europe’s principles and values.

In the light of this:

Will all the above issues be addressed in the upcoming meeting between the Presidents of the Council and the Commission and the Turkish President?