Türkiye has formally rejected the European Commission’s annual assessment report, characterizing the document as containing biased allegations and unbalanced evaluations of the country’s judicial system and political developments. The Turkish Foreign Ministry issued a comprehensive response Tuesday, asserting that the commission’s language contradicts efforts to establish a positive bilateral agenda and undermines long-term mutual interests between Ankara and Brussels.
Strategic Commitment and Economic Recognition
Despite its objections, Türkiye acknowledged the report’s positive recognition of its high alignment with EU economic standards and sound macroeconomic policies. The ministry highlighted that the documented compliance level demonstrates Ankara’s continued commitment to its strategic EU membership objective, even amid what it described as political obstacles throughout the accession negotiation process.
Regional Diplomacy and Bilateral Relations
The Turkish response expressed satisfaction with the report’s acknowledgment of Ankara’s constructive regional diplomacy, particularly regarding improved relations with Greece and stability efforts in the Eastern Mediterranean. Based on these positive developments, Türkiye reiterated its expectation that the European Council’s 2019 decisions restricting accession negotiations be promptly revoked to reflect the improved diplomatic climate.
Cyprus Dispute and Future Cooperation
The ministry criticized the report for incorporating what it termed “unrealistic and maximalist” Greek and Greek Cypriot positions while neglecting Türkiye’s legitimate concerns and those of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Ankara urged the EU to adopt a neutral stance on Cyprus and avoid holding bilateral relations hostage to specific disputes, emphasizing that enhanced institutional cooperation would benefit both Europe and the wider region.