Gozi: “Developments in the Middle East made it even more important for Turkey to join the EU”

“The recent, terrible developments of the Middle East situation made it even more imporant for Turkey to join the European Union,” said the Italian Under Secretary for European Affair, Sandro Gozi. According to Gozi in fact, the issue “is now much more important than ten years ago, given the Syrian and Iraqi wars and the deep economic integration of Ankara with European countries.” The EU, said Gozi, “should then consider the reasons why it granted Turkey the status of Candidate Member.”

On its side still, Ankara “needs to take some steps further on some issues,” for instance “the modernisation of democracy and its society,” because “signs of instability” can still be detected. These progresses should be encouraged “relaunching the joining strategy.” It is then necessary to “reopen as soon as possible” both chapter 23 (justice and fundamental rights) and 24 (justice, freedom and safety). “We want a clear picture of the independence of the Justice system and of the freedom of information,” added Gozi; it is also necessary to support “the attempts made by Turkey of approaching Greek-Cypriots and Armenians.” The Under Secretary than added that “We know Turkey has been passing through a difficult internal phase, but we thinks they are still interested in joining the Union.”