European Parliament approves Turkey Accession Report

PARIS

The European Parliament approved Wednesday Turkey’s 2014 progress report towards EU accession.

The report was adopted by 432 votes in favor, 94 against and 127 abstentions.

Speaking after the vote, European Parliament rapporteur for Turkey -- Dutch socialist MEP Kati Piri -- said, "The EU and Turkey are important strategic partners and it is in the interest of both to have a close and and effective cooperation."

However, she said there are still "concerns on certain developments" and "urged Turkey to respect media freedom, free expression and judicial independence."

Piri welcomed the recent parliamentary elections saying that "it demonstrated the resilience of Turkish democracy and the democratic spirit of its citizens."

"Turkish voters have indicated that they want change. Our reaction should not be to shut the door," Piri said.

"This report also clearly calls for more, not less, engagement with Turkey at all levels,"  she added.

Turkey’s 2014 Report on Progress to Accession  had praised the country for efforts to reach an "inclusive and sustainable" settlement with its Kurdish population.

Despite criticism over "government interference" in the judiciary and bans imposed on social media, the report also praised the country for its "invaluable support" for Syrian refugees.

The report also urges the European Commission "to review the conduct of the EU accession negotiations with Turkey and to consider how EU-Turkey relations could be improved and intensified."

It asks the European Commission "to support the Turkish government's efforts to conclude the peace process with the Kurdish community, through socio-economic and educational programs in the south-east of Turkey."

Negotiations for Turkey’s accession to the EU began in 2005. Turkey must comply with 35 chapters setting out reforms needed to become a member.