TURKISH CYPRIOT AND TURKISH MEDIA REVIEW
C O N T E N T S
No. 176/14 19.09.14
1. Nami met with Fule
2. A “parliamentary delegation” of the so-called assembly held contacts in Strasburg
3. Eroglu met with the British High Commissioner
4. Turkish Cypriot parties comment on Davutoglu’s illegal visit
5. Eroglu distributed the title deeds of the “Escape Homes” project in the occupied village of Karavas
6. TDP’s new general secretary
7. Columnist assesses the participation of Turkish Cypriot drivers in the Cyprus Rally 2014
8. Power-off switches at the “finance ministry” for not paying the bill
8. Power off switches at the “finance ministry” for not paying the bill
9. Turkey’s new EU strategy
10. Danish Speaker Lykketoft: We want to see Turkey in the EU
11. Turkish Foreign Minister called for exchange of information with other states to prevent jihadists entering Turkey
1. Nami met with Fule
Ankara Anatolia news agency (19.09.14) reports that the self-styled foreign minister Ozdil Nami met with European Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy Stefan Fule and stated that the EU Commission should not impose "unjustified requests" on Turkey regarding the Cyprus problem in the upcoming progress report.
He told the AA that Turkey was not evaluated justly and fairly in the previous EU progress reports on Turkey’s efforts to meet EU standards. “For example, Turkey is asked to normalize its relations with illegal Southern Cypriot Republic. The essence of the problem is this already," Nami alleged and added: «These kinds of demands are equal to pretending that there is no problem at all”, he claimed.
2. A “parliamentary delegation” of the so-called assembly held contacts in Strasburg
Turkish Cypriot daily Bakis newspaper (19.09.14) under the title: “A parliamentary delegation in Strasburg”, reports that a delegation from the so-called assembly, composed by Armagan Candan, so-called deputy with the Republican Turkish Party-United Forces (CTP-BG), Ersan Saner, “deputy” with the National Unity Party (UBP) and Hasan Tacoy, “deputy” with the Democratic Party-National Forces (DP-UG) held several contacts in Strasbourg within the framework of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe’s meeting (PACE).
According to a statement issued by the “assembly”, the delegation met with Turkey’s EU Minister and Chief Negotiator Volkan Bozkir, who was also in Strasburg.
During the meeting, the delegation exchanged views with Bozkir on the Cyprus problem and Turkey’s ties with the EU and Cyprus.
The “assembly” delegation met further with officials of several political groups at the European Parliament. The issues included on the agenda during the meetings, was the latest developments on the Cyprus problem, the “representation” of the Turkish Cypriots at the European Parliament, and the expectations of the Turkish Cypriots from the EU.
The “delegation” also conveyed to their interlocutors during the meeting their worries regarding the transferring of the task force for the Turkish Cypriot affairs from the Directorate-General for Enlargement to the Regional Policies Directorate-General. The delegation stressed the need during the meeting, for this development not to pave the way for the ties of the Turkish Cypriots with the EU to be harmed.
The delegation underlined further the need for this development not to prevent the implementation of the Financial Aid Regulation and the harmonization of the “rules” of “north Cyprus”, as the occupation regime is called.
At the same time, the delegation held also contacts with MPs at the EP, from the group of Social Democrats, the Christian Democrats, the Greens, and the Conservatives and Reformists as well as with Vice-Presidents of the European Parliament.
Moreover, Candan has also attended as -an observer member -a meeting of the Social Democrats group and met with the new President of the group Gianni Pittella.
The delegation is expected to return to the occupied area of Cyprus tonight.
(AK)
3. Eroglu met with the British High Commissioner
Turkish Cypriot daily Vatan newspaper (19.09.14) reports that Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu met yesterday at the so-called “presidential palace” with the newly appointed British High Commissioner in Cyprus Damian Roderic Todd.
According to the paper, Eroglu’s “undersecretary” Hasan Gungor and his “spokesman”, Osman Ertug, were also present at the meeting.
No statements were made before or after the meeting.
(AK)
4. Turkish Cypriot parties comment on Davutoglu’s illegal visit
Turkish Cypriot daily Havadis newspaper (19.09.14) reports that representatives of Turkish Cypriot political parties commented on the statements made by the Turkish Prime Minster, Ahmet Davutoglu during his recent illegal visit to the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus and especially what he has said on the issue of the distribution of the water, which is expected to be brought from Turkey to the occupied area of Cyprus through undersea pipelines.
The paper recalls that Davutoglu said that they are working on a model according to which the water distribution will be administered by a professional (private) company and that the “municipalities” will be granted shares.
Kutlay Erk, general secretary of the Republican Turkish Party (CTP) noted that the self-styled government of the regime is also working on some models as regards the water issue and added that they have partners from Turkey as well. Erk argued that the way by which the water will be distributed for consumption is something which their “government” will decide and that Turkey is concerned only with the issue of bringing the water to the occupied area of Cyprus.
Referring to Davutoglu’s statements on the Cyprus problem, Erk said that these were the “expected” statements adding that Davutoglu expressed the views of his government regarding the Turkish Cypriots and the Cyprus problem. “He expressed the message of peace with different words, but the meaning is the same. I hope that what he said will be materialized”, Erk added.
He also said that he finds it difficult to agree with Davutoglu’s statement regarding the economic development of the Turkish Cypriots and argued that there was no development in the “TRNC” during the past twelve years. He further expressed the view that the “people” have been experiencing “deep economic difficulties” since 2006.
Moreover, Sunat Atun, general secretary of the National Unity Party (UBP), said that Davutoglu knows the Cyprus problem very well and he was one of the “architects” of the “11 February period”, as he described the process for reaching an agreement on the Joint Declaration between President Anastasiades and the Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu. Atun argued that continuing the same line in their common policy with Turkey will be an advantage for them.
Referring to the issue of the water project, Atun said that they agree with Davutoglu and accused the “government” of “not acting with a mind equal to the project” which has been described as “the project of the century”. He alleged that the privatization does not mean that the price of the water will be determined by the private sector.
Finally, Cemal Ozyigit, chairman of the Social Democracy Party (TDP), said that the messages given on the Cyprus problem are very important. He said that Davutoglu’s views on the Cyprus problem are in harmony with the views of the TDP, except on the issue of the Confidence Building Measures.
Referring to the water issue, Ozyigit said that they are opposed to the management of its distribution by a private company, noting that there is an established mechanism. “This existing network should be supported and if there is a deficiency, it should be strengthened”, he added and expressed his concern about the fact that the “government” does not exhibit a stance that coincides with TDP’s views. He also expressed the view that the water should be administered by the “state” and the “municipalities”.
(I/Ts.)
5. Eroglu distributed the title deeds of the “Escape Homes” project in the occupied village of Karavas
Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris (19.09.14) reports that the Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu said that “citizens” may have experienced many problems on the issue of getting “title deeds” in the “country” and some cannot get them for years.
Addressing the ceremony for distributing the “title deeds” of the “Escape Homes” project in the occupied village of Karavas with the “Cyprus Development Director” Cagatay Ozbirim, Eroglu congratulated the “Cyprus Development”, who handed over the “title deeds” with the keys of the houses. He added: “Let us wish for the increase of building constructors, who are selling houses to foreigners, because those who come from abroad if they settle down and buy property, the name of TRNC will be known to the outside world. It is important from the point of promotion. In this way, the doors to work may be opened.”
6. TDP’s new general secretary
According to Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris (19.09.14), Dr Suphi Hudaoglu is the new general secretary of the Turkish Cypriot political party Social Democracy Party (TDP).
Hudaoglu was the only candidate for the position. The post was empty after Mehmet Harmanci’s election to the post of “mayor” of the occupied part of Lefkosia.
7. Columnist assesses the participation of Turkish Cypriot drivers in the Cyprus Rally 2014
Writing in Turkish Cypriot daily Yeni Duzen newspaper (19.09.14), columnist Hasan Ecer assesses the participation of Turkish Cypriot competitors in the Cyprus Rally 2014 and points out that this event, which will be broadcast live by Eurosport and the Al Jezeera television channels, will be watched in 168 countries. “This is the biggest gain which the competition will secure to our country. Even if you spend millions of dollars, you cannot have such an advertising and promotion”, he notes and claims inter alia, the following:
“This organization is an important step for the promotion of our country and the breaking of the embargoes which are implemented on us. The fact that Turkish Cypriot drivers will also participate in the competition makes the importance of the competition more meaningful. When I was preparing this article, I found out that five of our competitors will participate in this competition, that is, in this big Rally which will last three days. Sixteen persons had applied to participate in the competition. However, only five of our competitors could participate in this three-day competition because of some technical and financial problems. (…)
However, I heard that there are some associations which are preparing to protest against such a big organization. Beware, do not try to do such a thing. This people are suffering under embargoes for years. For the sake of political causes, do not try to turn into something negative this opportunity given to the Turkish Cypriot people to make its name heard in the world.
It is said that there are associations which are annoyed about the flag that will be put on the cars. According to the international rules, you apply to the International Automobile Federation (FIA) in order to participate in such competitions. Because the TRNC is a non-recognized country, the Northern Cyprus Touring and Automobile Organization has sent a letter to the Turkish Automobile Organization noting that it wanted to participate in the competition. A license was asked for the competitors from the FIA through Turkey. There was no information on the issue in spite of the fact that more than two months passed. While these events were taking place, the Cyprus Automobile Association applied to the FIA for a license on behalf of our competitors, in order to help our competitors, and to secure their participation in this competition, and received a positive answer. When the reply was positive, our competitors were obliged to use the Cyprus flag for the Rally. That is, the participants are obliged to use the flag of the country which had made the application for them to participate in the competition. Otherwise, you cannot participate in the competition. (…)
Like we always say, ‘let us leave politics to the politicians’. Sports are a means which unites the countries, strengthens friendships and, most importantly, shows that we are an entity in the world. (…)”
(I/Ts.)
8. Power-off switches at the “finance ministry” for not paying the bill
Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris Postasi newspaper (19.09.14) reports that the electrical power at the self-styled finance ministry of the breakaway regime was cut off because the electricity bill was not paid.
According to the paper, the “ministry” has a 61 million TL debt, to the “electricity authority” (KIB-TEK) which went ahead and turned the power off at the main “finance ministry” building during the early hours of the morning. No statement has been made from either party.
9. Turkey’s new EU strategy
Turkish Hurriyet Daily News (19.09.14) reports that Turkey has outlined a new strategy to secure accession to the European Union that vows determination in the political reform process, continuity in socio-economic transformation during the process, and effectiveness in communication.
“Prioritizing Turkey’s interests and the benefits of the citizens, the new strategy will lead to a boost in the reform process and the establishment of new communication channels between Turkey and the EU,” said a written statement from the EU Ministry on Sept. 18.
The European Union Strategy will go into effect upon the adoption of the National Action Plan for EU Accession and the European Union Communications Strategy in November and will be the first step for the “concrete commitment” declared by the new government, said the ministry’s strategy paper.
The European Union Strategy consists of the following parts: the political reform process, socio-economic transformation in the accession process and EU communication strategy, according to the paper.
The strategy paper outlined the road map as follows:
- The National Action Plan for EU Accession will be implemented in two periods: the first period will last until 2015 and the second will cover the period of 2015 to 2019. Determining the concrete and priority steps required in each negotiation chapter, the action plan consists of three parts; namely the harmonization of primary legislation, the harmonization of secondary legislation and institution building and others.
- Although fundamental laws and pieces of legislation have already been repealed or amended, all legislation bearing the imprints of the military coup of Sept. 12, 1980, will be reviewed in detail under the work for a new Constitution. The new charter will pave the way for the initiatives that Turkey needs by expanding the scope of politics and removing the imprints of the military tutelage.
- Although the relevant screening reports have not been conveyed to Turkey, the country will steadfastly continue a comprehensive reform agenda in all areas covered by the political criteria and accession chapters 23 and 24, such as freedom of expression, institutionalization in the field of human rights, border management, organized crime and the management of migration.
- The work of the Reform Monitoring Group (RMG) and the Political Affairs Subcommittee (SIYAK) will be intensified in the upcoming period for the preparation of new reform packages.
- All necessary steps will be taken for the successful conclusion of a visa liberalization process.
- Adopting legislation is not sufficient for harmonization with the EU. Upcoming reforms will not only focus on new legal arrangements but also on enhancing the implementation capacity.
- The National Action Plan for the EU Accession will address Turkey’s priorities in continuing and enhancing socio-economic change and identify the legislation to be harmonized in addition to the areas of action for improving administrative structures in proper implementation.
- The communication strategy has two dimensions. The first one is communication at home which aims to solidify the domestic perception of the EU process as a modernization project that improves living standards of Turkish people. Such a perception will ensure the support of all segments of society for the adoption and proper implementation of the reforms.
On the same issue, Turkish daily Hurriyet (online, 19.09.14) reports that the strategy paper outlined the following four chapters that Turkey’s accession into the EU faces difficulties:
The continuation for half century of the EU accession process
The double standards which apply to Turkey
The obstacles to the Turkish citizens to obtain visa
The Cyprus problem
10. Danish Speaker Lykketoft: We want to see Turkey in the EU
According to Turkish daily Hurriyet (online, 18.09.14), the Speaker of the Danish Parliament Mogens Lykketoft, who is currently carrying out contacts in Ankara, said that they want to see Turkey in the EU as long as Turkey fulfils the criteria which are necessary to join the EU.
Lykketoft noted that the negotiation process may last for long. He also said that he wishes for the solution of the Cyprus problem as soon as possible and the opening of the chapters, which are blocked due to this reason.
11. Turkish Foreign Minister called for exchange of information with other states to prevent jihadists entering Turkey
Turkish daily Today’s Zaman newspaper (19.09.14) reports that Turkey's Foreign Minister on Thursday called for a greater exchange of information with other states to prevent jihadists entering Turkey and travelling on to Iraq or Syria to join Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) militants.
"Turkey cannot fight this matter on its own. First and foremost, it needs information and intelligence sharing with our allies, like Germany, Europe and the United States," Mevlut Cavusoglu said at a press conference with his German counterpart in Berlin.
German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said he and Cavusoglu had discussed the alarming numbers of young people involved. "We have an interest in preventing as many of them as possible from reaching the conflict," he said.
----------------------------------------------------
TURKISH AFFAIRS SECTION
http://www.moi.gov.cy/pio
1. Nami met with Fule
2. A “parliamentary delegation” of the so-called assembly held contacts in Strasburg
3. Eroglu met with the British High Commissioner
4. Turkish Cypriot parties comment on Davutoglu’s illegal visit
5. Eroglu distributed the title deeds of the “Escape Homes” project in the occupied village of Karavas
6. TDP’s new general secretary
7. Columnist assesses the participation of Turkish Cypriot drivers in the Cyprus Rally 2014
8. Power-off switches at the “finance ministry” for not paying the bill
8. Power off switches at the “finance ministry” for not paying the bill
9. Turkey’s new EU strategy
10. Danish Speaker Lykketoft: We want to see Turkey in the EU
11. Turkish Foreign Minister called for exchange of information with other states to prevent jihadists entering Turkey
1. Nami met with Fule
Ankara Anatolia news agency (19.09.14) reports that the self-styled foreign minister Ozdil Nami met with European Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy Stefan Fule and stated that the EU Commission should not impose "unjustified requests" on Turkey regarding the Cyprus problem in the upcoming progress report.
He told the AA that Turkey was not evaluated justly and fairly in the previous EU progress reports on Turkey’s efforts to meet EU standards. “For example, Turkey is asked to normalize its relations with illegal Southern Cypriot Republic. The essence of the problem is this already," Nami alleged and added: «These kinds of demands are equal to pretending that there is no problem at all”, he claimed.
2. A “parliamentary delegation” of the so-called assembly held contacts in Strasburg
Turkish Cypriot daily Bakis newspaper (19.09.14) under the title: “A parliamentary delegation in Strasburg”, reports that a delegation from the so-called assembly, composed by Armagan Candan, so-called deputy with the Republican Turkish Party-United Forces (CTP-BG), Ersan Saner, “deputy” with the National Unity Party (UBP) and Hasan Tacoy, “deputy” with the Democratic Party-National Forces (DP-UG) held several contacts in Strasbourg within the framework of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe’s meeting (PACE).
According to a statement issued by the “assembly”, the delegation met with Turkey’s EU Minister and Chief Negotiator Volkan Bozkir, who was also in Strasburg.
During the meeting, the delegation exchanged views with Bozkir on the Cyprus problem and Turkey’s ties with the EU and Cyprus.
The “assembly” delegation met further with officials of several political groups at the European Parliament. The issues included on the agenda during the meetings, was the latest developments on the Cyprus problem, the “representation” of the Turkish Cypriots at the European Parliament, and the expectations of the Turkish Cypriots from the EU.
The “delegation” also conveyed to their interlocutors during the meeting their worries regarding the transferring of the task force for the Turkish Cypriot affairs from the Directorate-General for Enlargement to the Regional Policies Directorate-General. The delegation stressed the need during the meeting, for this development not to pave the way for the ties of the Turkish Cypriots with the EU to be harmed.
The delegation underlined further the need for this development not to prevent the implementation of the Financial Aid Regulation and the harmonization of the “rules” of “north Cyprus”, as the occupation regime is called.
At the same time, the delegation held also contacts with MPs at the EP, from the group of Social Democrats, the Christian Democrats, the Greens, and the Conservatives and Reformists as well as with Vice-Presidents of the European Parliament.
Moreover, Candan has also attended as -an observer member -a meeting of the Social Democrats group and met with the new President of the group Gianni Pittella.
The delegation is expected to return to the occupied area of Cyprus tonight.
(AK)
3. Eroglu met with the British High Commissioner
Turkish Cypriot daily Vatan newspaper (19.09.14) reports that Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu met yesterday at the so-called “presidential palace” with the newly appointed British High Commissioner in Cyprus Damian Roderic Todd.
According to the paper, Eroglu’s “undersecretary” Hasan Gungor and his “spokesman”, Osman Ertug, were also present at the meeting.
No statements were made before or after the meeting.
(AK)
4. Turkish Cypriot parties comment on Davutoglu’s illegal visit
Turkish Cypriot daily Havadis newspaper (19.09.14) reports that representatives of Turkish Cypriot political parties commented on the statements made by the Turkish Prime Minster, Ahmet Davutoglu during his recent illegal visit to the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus and especially what he has said on the issue of the distribution of the water, which is expected to be brought from Turkey to the occupied area of Cyprus through undersea pipelines.
The paper recalls that Davutoglu said that they are working on a model according to which the water distribution will be administered by a professional (private) company and that the “municipalities” will be granted shares.
Kutlay Erk, general secretary of the Republican Turkish Party (CTP) noted that the self-styled government of the regime is also working on some models as regards the water issue and added that they have partners from Turkey as well. Erk argued that the way by which the water will be distributed for consumption is something which their “government” will decide and that Turkey is concerned only with the issue of bringing the water to the occupied area of Cyprus.
Referring to Davutoglu’s statements on the Cyprus problem, Erk said that these were the “expected” statements adding that Davutoglu expressed the views of his government regarding the Turkish Cypriots and the Cyprus problem. “He expressed the message of peace with different words, but the meaning is the same. I hope that what he said will be materialized”, Erk added.
He also said that he finds it difficult to agree with Davutoglu’s statement regarding the economic development of the Turkish Cypriots and argued that there was no development in the “TRNC” during the past twelve years. He further expressed the view that the “people” have been experiencing “deep economic difficulties” since 2006.
Moreover, Sunat Atun, general secretary of the National Unity Party (UBP), said that Davutoglu knows the Cyprus problem very well and he was one of the “architects” of the “11 February period”, as he described the process for reaching an agreement on the Joint Declaration between President Anastasiades and the Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu. Atun argued that continuing the same line in their common policy with Turkey will be an advantage for them.
Referring to the issue of the water project, Atun said that they agree with Davutoglu and accused the “government” of “not acting with a mind equal to the project” which has been described as “the project of the century”. He alleged that the privatization does not mean that the price of the water will be determined by the private sector.
Finally, Cemal Ozyigit, chairman of the Social Democracy Party (TDP), said that the messages given on the Cyprus problem are very important. He said that Davutoglu’s views on the Cyprus problem are in harmony with the views of the TDP, except on the issue of the Confidence Building Measures.
Referring to the water issue, Ozyigit said that they are opposed to the management of its distribution by a private company, noting that there is an established mechanism. “This existing network should be supported and if there is a deficiency, it should be strengthened”, he added and expressed his concern about the fact that the “government” does not exhibit a stance that coincides with TDP’s views. He also expressed the view that the water should be administered by the “state” and the “municipalities”.
(I/Ts.)
5. Eroglu distributed the title deeds of the “Escape Homes” project in the occupied village of Karavas
Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris (19.09.14) reports that the Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu said that “citizens” may have experienced many problems on the issue of getting “title deeds” in the “country” and some cannot get them for years.
Addressing the ceremony for distributing the “title deeds” of the “Escape Homes” project in the occupied village of Karavas with the “Cyprus Development Director” Cagatay Ozbirim, Eroglu congratulated the “Cyprus Development”, who handed over the “title deeds” with the keys of the houses. He added: “Let us wish for the increase of building constructors, who are selling houses to foreigners, because those who come from abroad if they settle down and buy property, the name of TRNC will be known to the outside world. It is important from the point of promotion. In this way, the doors to work may be opened.”
6. TDP’s new general secretary
According to Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris (19.09.14), Dr Suphi Hudaoglu is the new general secretary of the Turkish Cypriot political party Social Democracy Party (TDP).
Hudaoglu was the only candidate for the position. The post was empty after Mehmet Harmanci’s election to the post of “mayor” of the occupied part of Lefkosia.
7. Columnist assesses the participation of Turkish Cypriot drivers in the Cyprus Rally 2014
Writing in Turkish Cypriot daily Yeni Duzen newspaper (19.09.14), columnist Hasan Ecer assesses the participation of Turkish Cypriot competitors in the Cyprus Rally 2014 and points out that this event, which will be broadcast live by Eurosport and the Al Jezeera television channels, will be watched in 168 countries. “This is the biggest gain which the competition will secure to our country. Even if you spend millions of dollars, you cannot have such an advertising and promotion”, he notes and claims inter alia, the following:
“This organization is an important step for the promotion of our country and the breaking of the embargoes which are implemented on us. The fact that Turkish Cypriot drivers will also participate in the competition makes the importance of the competition more meaningful. When I was preparing this article, I found out that five of our competitors will participate in this competition, that is, in this big Rally which will last three days. Sixteen persons had applied to participate in the competition. However, only five of our competitors could participate in this three-day competition because of some technical and financial problems. (…)
However, I heard that there are some associations which are preparing to protest against such a big organization. Beware, do not try to do such a thing. This people are suffering under embargoes for years. For the sake of political causes, do not try to turn into something negative this opportunity given to the Turkish Cypriot people to make its name heard in the world.
It is said that there are associations which are annoyed about the flag that will be put on the cars. According to the international rules, you apply to the International Automobile Federation (FIA) in order to participate in such competitions. Because the TRNC is a non-recognized country, the Northern Cyprus Touring and Automobile Organization has sent a letter to the Turkish Automobile Organization noting that it wanted to participate in the competition. A license was asked for the competitors from the FIA through Turkey. There was no information on the issue in spite of the fact that more than two months passed. While these events were taking place, the Cyprus Automobile Association applied to the FIA for a license on behalf of our competitors, in order to help our competitors, and to secure their participation in this competition, and received a positive answer. When the reply was positive, our competitors were obliged to use the Cyprus flag for the Rally. That is, the participants are obliged to use the flag of the country which had made the application for them to participate in the competition. Otherwise, you cannot participate in the competition. (…)
Like we always say, ‘let us leave politics to the politicians’. Sports are a means which unites the countries, strengthens friendships and, most importantly, shows that we are an entity in the world. (…)”
(I/Ts.)
8. Power-off switches at the “finance ministry” for not paying the bill
Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris Postasi newspaper (19.09.14) reports that the electrical power at the self-styled finance ministry of the breakaway regime was cut off because the electricity bill was not paid.
According to the paper, the “ministry” has a 61 million TL debt, to the “electricity authority” (KIB-TEK) which went ahead and turned the power off at the main “finance ministry” building during the early hours of the morning. No statement has been made from either party.
9. Turkey’s new EU strategy
Turkish Hurriyet Daily News (19.09.14) reports that Turkey has outlined a new strategy to secure accession to the European Union that vows determination in the political reform process, continuity in socio-economic transformation during the process, and effectiveness in communication.
“Prioritizing Turkey’s interests and the benefits of the citizens, the new strategy will lead to a boost in the reform process and the establishment of new communication channels between Turkey and the EU,” said a written statement from the EU Ministry on Sept. 18.
The European Union Strategy will go into effect upon the adoption of the National Action Plan for EU Accession and the European Union Communications Strategy in November and will be the first step for the “concrete commitment” declared by the new government, said the ministry’s strategy paper.
The European Union Strategy consists of the following parts: the political reform process, socio-economic transformation in the accession process and EU communication strategy, according to the paper.
The strategy paper outlined the road map as follows:
- The National Action Plan for EU Accession will be implemented in two periods: the first period will last until 2015 and the second will cover the period of 2015 to 2019. Determining the concrete and priority steps required in each negotiation chapter, the action plan consists of three parts; namely the harmonization of primary legislation, the harmonization of secondary legislation and institution building and others.
- Although fundamental laws and pieces of legislation have already been repealed or amended, all legislation bearing the imprints of the military coup of Sept. 12, 1980, will be reviewed in detail under the work for a new Constitution. The new charter will pave the way for the initiatives that Turkey needs by expanding the scope of politics and removing the imprints of the military tutelage.
- Although the relevant screening reports have not been conveyed to Turkey, the country will steadfastly continue a comprehensive reform agenda in all areas covered by the political criteria and accession chapters 23 and 24, such as freedom of expression, institutionalization in the field of human rights, border management, organized crime and the management of migration.
- The work of the Reform Monitoring Group (RMG) and the Political Affairs Subcommittee (SIYAK) will be intensified in the upcoming period for the preparation of new reform packages.
- All necessary steps will be taken for the successful conclusion of a visa liberalization process.
- Adopting legislation is not sufficient for harmonization with the EU. Upcoming reforms will not only focus on new legal arrangements but also on enhancing the implementation capacity.
- The National Action Plan for the EU Accession will address Turkey’s priorities in continuing and enhancing socio-economic change and identify the legislation to be harmonized in addition to the areas of action for improving administrative structures in proper implementation.
- The communication strategy has two dimensions. The first one is communication at home which aims to solidify the domestic perception of the EU process as a modernization project that improves living standards of Turkish people. Such a perception will ensure the support of all segments of society for the adoption and proper implementation of the reforms.
On the same issue, Turkish daily Hurriyet (online, 19.09.14) reports that the strategy paper outlined the following four chapters that Turkey’s accession into the EU faces difficulties:
The continuation for half century of the EU accession process
The double standards which apply to Turkey
The obstacles to the Turkish citizens to obtain visa
The Cyprus problem
10. Danish Speaker Lykketoft: We want to see Turkey in the EU
According to Turkish daily Hurriyet (online, 18.09.14), the Speaker of the Danish Parliament Mogens Lykketoft, who is currently carrying out contacts in Ankara, said that they want to see Turkey in the EU as long as Turkey fulfils the criteria which are necessary to join the EU.
Lykketoft noted that the negotiation process may last for long. He also said that he wishes for the solution of the Cyprus problem as soon as possible and the opening of the chapters, which are blocked due to this reason.
11. Turkish Foreign Minister called for exchange of information with other states to prevent jihadists entering Turkey
Turkish daily Today’s Zaman newspaper (19.09.14) reports that Turkey's Foreign Minister on Thursday called for a greater exchange of information with other states to prevent jihadists entering Turkey and travelling on to Iraq or Syria to join Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) militants.
"Turkey cannot fight this matter on its own. First and foremost, it needs information and intelligence sharing with our allies, like Germany, Europe and the United States," Mevlut Cavusoglu said at a press conference with his German counterpart in Berlin.
German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said he and Cavusoglu had discussed the alarming numbers of young people involved. "We have an interest in preventing as many of them as possible from reaching the conflict," he said.
----------------------------------------------------
TURKISH AFFAIRS SECTION
http://www.moi.gov.cy/pio
