New mutual engagement between EU and Turkey is needed, MEPs say

Renewed mutual engagement is needed to maintain constructive relations in EU-Turkey relations in the context of the negotiation process, MEPs said on Thursday, a press release of the European Parliament informs. In a resolution on the 2012 progress report on Turkey, they call for opening of negotiations on the judiciary, fundamental rights, and home affairs and praise recent talks which might help settle the Kurdish issue.

“We need commitment from both the EU and Turkey,” said Ria Oomen-Ruijten (EPP, NL), the EP rapporteur for Turkey. “Turkey needs to step up efforts to guarantee freedom of expression, media freedom and all other fundamental freedoms in line with the values of the EU. The EU must do its utmost to support Turkey in the reform process – renewed efforts for the opening of further negotiation chapters are important,” she added.