“The arrest of the mayor of Istanbul and the protesters raises questions about Turkey’s attachment to its long-standing democratic tradition.” This was stated today by the European Commission, asked to comment on the latest developments in Turkey.

As reported by APE-MPA, the spokesperson for Enlargement, Gijom Mercier, responded that “as a member of the Council of Europe and as an EU candidate country, Turkey must uphold its democratic values. The rights of elected officials, as well as the right to peaceful demonstrations must be fully respected.”

Asked whether and to what extent Turkey continues to be a “like-minded partner country” for the EU, Guillaume Mercier echoed the statement made by Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, last week that: “we want Turkey to remain committed to Europe, but this requires a clear commitment to democratic norms and practices” and at the same time “it is important that Turkey respects these fundamental principles.”

It is also important that fundamental principles of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms be respected.

Regarding the briefing on 21 March, after the European Council, by the Commission President and the President of the European Council to the leaders of the “coalition of the willing” countries on Ukraine, including the Turkish President, Commission spokeswoman Paola Pino replied that Turkey was part of these discussions before the recent events in the country.

Asked if the commission intends to reconsider holding the two high-level dialogues next month with Turkey, Gijos Mercier replied, “We do not want to speculate at this stage about a possible cancellation.” He added, however, that the Commission was following the situation with Turkey very closely.

But the Commission is closely monitoring the situation in Turkey.