The European Commission’s report on Turkey’s accession process has prompted a reaction from Ankara, with the Turkish side accusing the European Union of bias and a lack of objectivity.

According to Turkey’s statement, the report once again confirms what Ankara describes as the EU’s prejudiced and unfair treatment of the country. The Turkish side rejects as unfounded the criticisms contained in the document, particularly those concerning political criteria, the functioning of the judiciary and the protection of fundamental rights.

It also describes the relevant references as the result of the stance taken by certain European officials, whom it accuses of applying double standards, acting inconsistently and losing credibility.

Reactions over Greece, Cyprus and the Turkey-Libya memorandum

Particular reference is made to Greek-Turkish relations and the Cyprus issue, with Ankara claiming that the European Commission has once again adopted the positions of Greece and the Republic of Cyprus.

The Turkish side describes these positions as “maximalist”, detached from reality and incompatible with international law. It also claims that the legitimate rights and interests of Turkey and the self-proclaimed state in northern Cyprus — which Ankara calls the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” — are being ignored.

Regarding the Cyprus issue, Turkey reiterates that the European Union cannot make a meaningful contribution to efforts to resolve it as long as, in its assessment, it unconditionally adopts the positions of the Greek Cypriot side.

At the same time, it categorically rejects the Commission’s assessments concerning the Eastern Mediterranean, arguing that they run counter to international law and the principle of justice.

Ankara also insists on defending the Turkey-Libya memorandum, declaring that the references in the European report to the relevant agreement between Turkey and Libya have, in its view, no legal force.

Positive references to the economy and call for a Customs Union upgrade

Despite its strong disagreements with the political aspects of the report, the Turkish side acknowledges as positive the Commission’s findings regarding the progress the country has made in economic and monetary policy.

Ankara attaches particular importance to the references concerning the functioning of its market economy and Turkey’s ability to withstand competitive pressures within the European Union.

It also welcomes the recognition of Turkey’s role in interconnections, the resilience of supply and value chains, and the fields of defense and security.

Taking the report’s economic and trade findings as an opportunity, Turkey is renewing its call for the modernization of the Customs Union with the EU, describing this expectation as fair and legitimate.

Ankara’s message on relations with the EU

In conclusion, the Turkish side stresses that relations between Turkey and the European Union should not be determined by narrow political calculations and unilateral approaches, but should instead be based on shared interests and a long-term strategy.

It states that it remains ready to advance relations with Brussels on the basis of mutual trust, respect, fairness and compliance with contractual commitments.

At the same time, it calls on the European Union to turn the increased dialogue recorded in recent months into concrete decisions that will strengthen Turkey’s European prospects.

As it points out, Ankara expects Brussels to demonstrate the necessary strategic will to shape a common future.