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Fátima Taboada López

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Would the accession of Turkey to the European Union be positive or not? This question was discussed by several politicians at the conference “Europe: with or without Turkey?” organized by the French newspaper “Le Nouvel Observateur” and the Kathimerini. They all noted the importance of Turkey's entry into the European Union as something which can be of benefit both for Europe and Turkey. Anna Diamantopoulou, President of the DIKTYO – Network for Reform in Greece and Europe, Former Minister and EU Commissioner, pointed out that Greece firmly supports the entry of Turkey despite the problem with Cyprus. In addition, she thinks that if Turkey joined the Union this problem could be easier to solve.

Bernard Kouchner, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs, spoke about the problems of freedom in Turkey: two days ago, the Turkish parliament approved a law for Internet content control; president Erdogan has banned demonstrations in Gazi and supports governments of Middle Eastern countries such as Syria, Egypt and Iran. This fact, coupled with the strong Turkish migration in Germany, makes some countries (for example, Germany, Austria, Cyprus and France) be against the joining, despite the country’s economic success and all it could contribute to Europe.

Panos Carvounis, Representative of the European Commission in Greece, expressed the support of the European Commission and said that Turkey’s entry could be beneficial both for the country itself and Europe, but also for the Southern countries. Its accession would also be an important step for the resolution of the conflict with Cyprus and despite the difficulties, it would be good for Greece.

Selim Yenel, Ambassador of Turkey to the European Union, referred to Turkey as a great power which could contribute to Europe: at the turn of the 20st century, Turkey embarked on a series of economic and political reforms which brought it closer to the Western world. The country also participates in several European institutions. However, Turkey has to make further reforms and it needs the European Union in order to do that. There has been strong support for Turkey's entry into the European Union, but it is very important for the country to start changing its policy regarding the conflict with Cyprus. If not, the peaceful coexistence within the Union would be very difficult.