Brussels – The European Commission’s upcoming report on the Union’s enlargement, including the prospects of candidate-state Turkey, is expected to reiterate that the latter’s accession course has languished since 2018, with the latter country judged as continuing to distance itself from the bloc.
The report, which will be released on Wednesday in Brussels, is also expected to underline that the Commission remains in favor of a “positive agenda” in talks with Ankara, but in a gradual, proportional and reversible manner. Another highlight in the report will be a reference to a strategic interest for a stable and secure environment in the east Mediterranean, amid a spirit of cooperation and a mutually beneficial relationship.
Additionally, the report is expected to maintain that EU-Turkey relations acquired a more dynamic nature over the past year, with the Union “reconnecting” with Ankara on a series of issues of mutual interest. The draft stated that the bloc will continue efforts to bridge major differences with the Turkish side.
Of particular significance is a reference to a lack of progress by Ankara in aligning itself with the Union’s common foreign and security policy, although some progress was ascertained in the latter’s imposition of EU sanctions against Russia, the draft states.
The Commission will also stress that the western Balkans and Turkey remain a source and hub for criminal activities and gangs that are also active in the EU.
