Republic of Türkiye: Conclusions of the European Union General Affairs Council, December 17, 2024
No: 257, December 18, 2024
The European Union General Affairs Council (GAC) met on December 17, 2024, in Brussels to discuss a range of issues related to the EU’s foreign policy, including the ongoing negotiations with Türkiye.
Key Conclusions:
Türkiye’s EU Membership Bid:
- The GAC welcomed Türkiye’s renewed commitment to democratic reforms and the rule of law.
- However, the Council expressed concerns about the recent restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly in Türkiye.
- The GAC stated that further progress on these issues is necessary for Türkiye to advance its EU membership bid.
Accession Negotiations:
- The GAC agreed to continue accession negotiations with Türkiye in a step-by-step manner, based on conditionality and the principle of reversibility.
- The Council highlighted the importance of addressing outstanding issues, including the Cyprus dispute and the rule of law.
Human Rights and Democracy:
- The GAC emphasized the EU’s commitment to supporting human rights and democracy in Türkiye.
- The Council called for the release of political prisoners and the establishment of an independent judiciary.
Visa Liberalization:
- The GAC discussed the issue of visa liberalization for Turkish citizens traveling to the EU.
- The Council acknowledged that Türkiye had made some progress in meeting the visa liberalization criteria.
- However, the GAC decided that further efforts are needed to fully comply with the conditions.
Regional Issues:
- The GAC exchanged views on regional issues, including the situation in Syria and the Eastern Mediterranean.
- The Council expressed its support for Türkiye’s efforts to contribute to stability and peace in the region.
Additional Information:
- The GAC meeting was attended by representatives from all 27 EU member states, as well as the European Commission and the European External Action Service.
- The meeting was chaired by the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell.
- The GAC is responsible for coordinating the EU’s foreign and security policy, and for ensuring the implementation of EU decisions in these areas.
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