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19 65

ISSUE: 68 JANUARY 2021 www.ikv.org.tr / contact: [email protected] TURKEY-EU RELATIONS AT YEAR’S END: WHAT NEXT?

The European Council decided to postpone a more serious discussion on Turkey to the March European Council. The March European Council is expected to turn into a platform where the future of the Turkey-EU relationship will be up for discussion.

Assoc. Prof. Çiğdem NAS and host communities in Turkey and President and other officials attest IKV Secretary General to cooperate on the responsible to a return to the EU perspective management of migration flows as a strategic goal for the current towards all Member States and government. The March European he Turkey-EU relations went on stepping up efforts in the fight Council will be critical in determining through quite a difficult period against migrant smuggler networks”. the future direction of the Tin 2020. Above all, foreign policy relationship. differences and conflicts over Eastern Intense Discussion on Turkey-EU The European Council also Mediterranean maritime zones, Relations Foreseen for March touched upon the Cyprus issue, Cyprus issue and Aegean disputes 2021 condemned Turkey for partially between Turkey and Greece created The major question regarding opening the closed city of a growing divergence between the the conclusions of the European Maraş/Varosha, called for a return to two parties. The EU mostly backed Council was whether or not new negotiations under the UN auspices Greece and the Greek Cypriot sanctions would be implemented for a comprehensive settlement Administration of Southern Cyprus towards Turkey. As noted above, of the Cyprus problem. It also (GCASC) and paid scant attention to several Member States such as underlined that it awaits Turkey to Turkey’s point of view and claims of France, Greece, GCASC, and Austria support the resumption of talks for a what it saw as its legitimate interests. advocated a tougher approach to resolution of the Cyprus problem and Turkey’s foreign policy activism in December European Council was willingness to start a dialogue with Turkey and supported the adoption requested the High Representative the region, most notably sending mostly dominated by other issues the EU and its Member States: “The of tough sanctions including to proceed with the organisation off seismic exploration vessels in such as resolving the Hungarian offer of a positive EU-Turkey agenda disruption of trade and economic of a “multilateral conference on the search of hydrocarbons, operations in and Polish vetoes over the recovery remains on the table, provided links. The Council decided to Eastern Mediterranean” which was Syria and intervention into the Libya fund and multiannual budget of the Turkey shows readiness to promote a postpone a more serious discussion an initiative already put forward in and Nagorno-Karabakh conflicts Union. German Chancellor Merkel genuine partnership with the Union on Turkey and whether or not to the 1 October European Council. This drew sharp criticism from the EU also played a moderating role and and its Member States and to resolve implement sanctions to the March call for a resumption of talks for the and especially some of its Member postponed the more intensive debate differences through dialogue and in European Council. A limited extension resolution of the Cyprus issue is a States such as France. Turkey’s on Turkey to the March European accordance with international law”. of existing restrictive measures was positive step. However, considering foreign policy moves were seen Council. Until that time the EU’s The offer of a positive agenda adopted which foresaw additional that Turkey supported the Annan Plan as threats to stability in the region policy towards Turkey could also be is seen by the EU as the only way to listings of persons involved in the for a comprehensive settlement of and EU’s interests. However, the fact coordinated with the soon-to-be save the increasingly problematic drilling and seismic exploration the Cyprus problem back in 2004 and that Turkey intervened on behalf of inaugurated Biden Administration in relationship. On the part of Turkey activities in the Eastern Mediterranean had to then observe the membership the UN-recognised government in the USA. however, it is met with scepticism region. In addition, the Council of GCASC to the EU after rejecting the Libya and hydrocarbon explorations due to its being tied to conditions tasked the Commission and High Plan in a referendum, it would not be sanctioned by the GCASC mostly Decoding the European Council which conflict with the country’s Representative for Foreign and wrong to assume that the EU’s calls left out the Turkish Cypriot interests Conclusions on Turkey foreign policy stance and national Security Policy Josep Borrell to prepare for a comprehensive settlement of or the fact that any deal regarding The conclusions of the European interests in Eastern Mediterranean. a report on Turkey-EU relations: the Cyprus issue could fall on deaf the delimitation of territorial waters Council included the relations The contents of the agenda namely “…invites the High Representative ears. and continental shelf in the Aegean with Turkey under the “Eastern “areas of the economy and trade, and the Commission, to submit a The final point made by the Sea had to take into account the sui Mediterranean” heading. The Council people to people contacts, high level report on the state of play concerning European Council in its conclusions generis nature of the region were firstly criticised Turkey’s actions in dialogues and continued cooperation the EU-Turkey political, economic and on the Eastern Mediterranean and mostly omitted from public debates the Eastern Mediterranean since the on migration issues” would be trade relations and on instruments Turkey was quite interesting and on Turkey’s foreign policy activism. 1-2 October European Council when welcome developments for Turkey-EU and options on how to proceed… at critical regarding the near future the proposal for a positive political relations. However, it should also be the latest at the March 2021 European of the relationship. The Council The Debate on Turkey-EU agenda was offered. While noting the noted that any reference to Turkey’s Council”. Hence, the March European noted that issues in this regard, Relations ahead of the December withdrawal of the Oruç Reis vessel accession process or candidacy to Council is expected to turn into a i.e. with respect to relations with European Council to the Antalya Harbour, it called for the EU is omitted from the proposal platform where the future of the Turkey and the situation in the 2020’s final European Council “sustained de-escalation so as to allow for a positive agenda. While the offer Turkey-EU relationship will be up for Eastern Mediterranean would be meeting took place on 10 and 11 for the early resumption and smooth specifically mentioned modernisation discussion. Owing to the fact that coordinated with the United States. December in Brussels amid a soaring continuation of direct exploratory of the Customs Union and trade the EU and UK were able to arrive at Taking into account that the EU wave of COVID-19. Prior to the talks between Greece and Turkey”. facilitation, in this renewed version, an agreement on the new trade and is looking forward to revitalise Council meeting, several EU Member The Council then went onto a vaguer reference to economy and cooperation relationship between the the transatlantic relations under States expressed their approach outlining its approach to relations trade is made without specifically two, this new agreement could be a the Biden administration with a towards Turkey and focused on the with Turkey for the time being and calling for modernisation of the source of inspiration for recalibrating view to mending the relationship need for further sanctions. While underlined “EU’s strategic interest in Customs Union. The European the Turkey-EU relationship. While that was dealt a heavy blow the Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs the development of a cooperative Council nevertheless underlined the EU’s preference would be for a by the Trump administration, Dendias argued for a suspension of and mutually beneficial relationship that cooperation in migration partnership that would take the place coordination of policies towards the Customs Union, French Minister with Turkey”. In order to develop management and financial assistance of the current Association+Accession Turkey and resolution of the Eastern for European Affairs Le Drian noted this relationship, the earlier offer of a to refugees and host communities framework, Turkish government Mediterranean quagmire would be that EU’s policy towards Turkey positive political agenda was declared will continue: “The EU will also be would object to the elimination of one of the most prominent issues would change in the direction of to “remain on the table”. However, it prepared to continue providing candidacy and accession status. likely to be included in the renewed harsh sanctions. However, the 10 was made conditional upon Turkey’s financial assistance to Syrian refugees Recent announcements from the transatlantic agenda. 1965 2020

19 65 1 1965 ISSUE: 68 JANUARY 2021 9 65 2018

IKV AGENDA IKV CHAIRMAN ZEYTİNOĞLU ASSESSED THE DECEMBER EUROPEAN COUNCIL CONCLUSIONS

KV Chairman Ayhan Zeytinoğlu market, EU investments continue to issue was also a sanction. More recently, Iissued a statement following the flow to our country and that political sanctions came one after another in European Council meeting of 10 tension is defused. In this period, 2018 and 2019. In essence, not being December 2020 in which relations convening an international conference able to launch the negotiations aimed with Turkey were discussed. Evaluating to resolve the outstanding issues in at the modernisation of the Customs the Council’s decision not to adopt the Eastern Mediterranean - an idea Union today is a sanction. Through the harsh sanctions stipulated by supported by both Turkey and the EU- the EU’s new generation free trade some Member States ahead of the could play a crucial role in overcoming agreements (FTAs) many countries such meeting as a positive development, tensions. Through its hydrocarbon as Vietnam are gaining concessions IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu indicated exploration activities, Turkey has made in the EU market. With the European NEW IKV that this did not imply an end to the it clear that no mechanism excluding Green Deal and the Digital Agenda, PUBLICATION problems between Turkey and the EU. it will be sustainable in the Eastern the EU is renewing its standards and IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu pointed out Mediterranean. In the coming period, practices in almost all sectors such ON to the importance of operationalising the resolution of the problems in as trade, industry, agriculture and swiftly the dialogue and cooperation the Eastern Mediterranean through transportation. Turkey also needs to TURKEY-EU mechanisms for resolving the diplomacy and multilateralism will take part in this process and ensure ASSOCIATION outstanding problems and advancing reflect positively on the future of its adaptation. These issues could also Turkey-EU relations. He made the seems that the future of the relations Turkey-EU relations.” be addressed in the Customs Union LAW following remarks: and whether more comprehensive Indicating that there were modernisation process, along with the he book titled “EU-Turkey “No harsh sanction decision sanctions will be imposed will also numerous issues that needed resolution of problems such as FTAs Association in the Case-Law came out of the European Council be coordinated with the next US to be discussed and negotiated and transportation quotas, and the T of European Court of Justice” meeting held on 10 December 2020. administration under Biden which will between Turkey and the EU, IKV inclusion of agriculture and services authored by Prof. Vilenas The European Council gave directives take office in January 2021, and the Chairman Zeytinoğlu referred to the sectors. Moreover, another important Vadapalas was published from to the Foreign Affairs Council to issue will come to the agenda of the modernisation of the Customs Union issue is visa liberalisation. Turkey has IKV Publications in December. In expand the list of restrictive measures European Council again in March 2021. and visa liberalisation which are of taken important steps in this area. It the book, Prof. Vadapalas, who consisting of officials participating in In this period, we need to work towards particular interest to the business has fulfilled 66 of 72 the benchmarks. is a former Judge of the General hydrocarbon exploration activities in progressing in the EU process through community. IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu The remaining benchmarks should be Court of the EU renowned for the Eastern Mediterranean. In addition, diplomatic initiatives and reform efforts. concluded his remarks as follows: fulfilled as a demonstration of Turkey’s his significant works on EU it was stated that the positive agenda We should eliminate the possibility “The issue of sanctions is not new commitment to reforms. We share law, provides an in-depth and that was proposed on 1 October of the US and the EU imposing in Turkey-EU relations. In fact, as early common values with the EU in the extensive analysis of Turkey-EU 2020 was still on the table and that coordinated harsh sanctions. The EU is as 2006, the decision of the Council fields of judiciary, law, fundamental Association Law through the the development of a cooperative Turkey’s largest export market. It is of not to open eight chapters linked the rights and freedoms. We also need case law of the European Court and mutually beneficial relationship utmost importance that we maintain Customs Union and not to provisionally to reflect these values to the reform of Justice. with Turkey was in the EU’s interest. It and increase our share in the EU close any chapters due to the Cyprus process.”

IKV CHAIRMAN ZEYTİNOĞLU: “TIME TO TAKE STEPS IN TURKEY-EU RELATIONS”

ndicating that Turkey was passing conditional on Turkey ceasing its contradiction with the EU’s strategic rule of law, judicial independence and Ithrough a significant turning point activities in the Eastern Mediterranean. vision. Additionally, IKV Chairman fundamental rights. In 2018, citing in the EU accession process, IKV It was stated that for Turkey the Zeytinoğlu underscored that Turkey that Turkey was moving away from Chairman Ayhan Zeytinoğlu stressed objective of EU membership had an opportunity to restore its the EU, the EU had stated that no the need to speed up the reforms to continued but linking it to vital Turkish relations with the EU through political new chapters would be opened and revitalise relations with the EU in a foreign policy issues was deemed and economic reforms. He continued the talks aimed at the modernisation statement issued on 21 December inappropriate. The proposal for a as follows: of the Customs Union would not be 2020. IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu positive agenda was reiterated at “The EU will revert to Turkey-EU launched. Since then, the problems pointed to Turkey’s critical importance the European Council meeting of 10 relations at the summit in March. related to the Customs Union have for reaching EU’s objectives of December 2020. States advocating Tougher decisions could come out continued and the need to solve economic resilience and strategic harsh sanctions against Turkey ahead unless there is an improvement in these has become more urgent. The autonomy in the post-COVID-19 of the summit did not get what they the relations by then. The EU is a very reforms I have mentioned are of great era. IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu stated wanted. This, however, does not mean important partner as a destination importance in launching this process that recently there have been some that the problems have been solved. for half of our exports and the and extending the Customs Union disagreements on foreign policy In the coming period, we must speed source of two thirds of foreign direct into new sectors such as agriculture, issues between Turkey and the EU and up the steps aimed at restoring the investments flowing to our country. services and public procurement. that the Greek Cypriot Administration relations with the EU.” In addition, the fact that we have Returning to EU reforms again, as and Greece bringing their bilateral “We are going through a critical IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu stated a membership objective further in the early 2000s, will also pave the disputes with Turkey on to the EU phase in our relations with the EU. that EU’s approach of imposing highlights the EU’s position. A series of way for launching this process. The platform, have undermined the Meeting at the European Council sanctions on Turkey because of its reform steps must be taken without modernisation of the Customs Union relations. Zeytinoğlu indicated that on 10 December 2020, EU Member actions in the Eastern Mediterranean delay to move forward towards these will make it easier for Turkey to align France’s approach vis-à-vis Turkey was States confirmed that the positive and the Aegean was unfair. Indicating objectives. First of all, steps can be with the new norms and standards far from being constructive whereas agenda proposed on 1 October 2020 that Turkey was the candidate taken quickly to fulfil the remaining generated by EU’s recent initiatives Germany as the country holding was still valid. As it can be recalled, the country having the most deep- benchmarks in the visa liberalisation such the Digital Agenda and the the EU’s rotating presidency was positive agenda pointed to areas such rooted relations with the EU, IKV process. Turkey has already fulfilled European Green Deal. This way, our moderating the radical approaches as the modernisation of the Customs Chairman Zeytinoğlu stressed that 66 of the 72 benchmarks. Taking competitiveness in the EU market will displayed by some Member States Union, trade facilitation, people to Turkey was fulfilling very important swift action to meet the remaining increase and our role in value chains and with the support of Member people contacts, cooperation on functions for the security of Europe benchmarks will have a positive effect will become even more important. States such as Italy and Spain migration and the resumption of at its borders. He said that totally on the relations. Moreover, necessary Advancing economic integration with preventing the relations from taking high-level dialogues to revitalise the submitting to the claims by Greece reforms should be undertaken in the EU will also contribute to Turkey’s a worse turn. He made the following relations. However, the realisation and the Greek Cypriot Administration order for our country to achieve a goal to rank among the world’s ten remarks: of the positive agenda was made and confronting Turkey was in better performance in the fields of biggest economies.”

 ISSUE 68 . January 2021 1965 2020

19 65 1965 www.ikv.org.tr 19 65 2018 IKV AGENDA TIMELINE DECEMBER 2020 Turkish Foreign Minister 1 MODERNISATION OF THE CUSTOMS Çavuşoğlu attended the NATO Foreign Ministerial held via video conference. 2 IKV Secretary General Nas spoke UNION DISCUSSED FROM A BUSINESS at the webinar on “Turkey-EU and EP’s new Turkey Rapporteur 3 the Green Deal” live streamed on PERSPECTIVE Sánchez Amor presented the Medyascope. draft 2019-2020 Report on 4 KV Secretary General Assoc. Prof. Turkey in AFET. IÇiğdem Nas attended the online event entitled “Modernisation of 5 IKV published a policy brief Turkey-EU Customs Union – Business on “Expectations vs. Realities: Implications of Germany’s EU Perspectives from Turkey and 6 Germany” which was organised on Presidency for the Modernisation 17 December 2020 by the of Turkey-EU Customs Union”. Turkish-German Chamber of Hungarian Foreign Minister 7 Commerce and Industry. Szijjarto paid a working visit to The book titled “EU-Turkey Former European Commission Turkey. 8 Vice-President Günter Verheugen Association in the Case-Law of was the keynote speaker of the European Court of Justice” was published by IKV. event, the opening speeches of EU leaders reached a deal on the 9 which were delivered by Deputy COVID-19 recovery package and Minister of Foreign Affairs and adopted conclusions on Turkey, 10 IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu issued a Director for EU Affairs Ambassador Susanne Schütz. Manager Cristina Mandru were the COVID-19 and climate change. Faruk Kaymakcı, Deputy Minister of During the event, a panel speakers of the panel which was statement assessing the European Council conclusions on Turkey. Trade Gonca Yılmaz Batur, President discussion on the modernisation of chaired by TEPAV Executive Director Turkey and Azerbaijan signed a 11 of the Turkish-German Chamber the Customs Union from a business Prof. Güven Sak. protocol allowing mutual travel with ID cards. of Commerce and Industry Rolf perspective was held. IKV Secretary The closing speech of the 12 A. Königs, Turkey’s Ambassador General Assoc. Prof. Çiğdem Nas, meeting was delivered by the Union to Germany Ali Kemal Aydın, and Bertelsmann Foundation Senior of Chambers and Commodity The US imposed sanctions on Director for Southeast Europe, Specialist in Trade and Globalisation Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) Turkey over its acquisition of 13 Turkey, EFTA countries, OSCE and Dr. Christian Bluth, AUNDE Technical President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu who Russian S-400 missile defence Council of Europe at the German Inc. Chairman Cesur Sünnetçioğlu expressed the views of the Turkish system. 14 Federal Foreign Office, Ambassador and BEKO/Grundig Supply Chain business community. “Art of Miniature” and “Mangala” 15 IKV Secretary General Nas spoke were added to UNESCO’s “TURKEY-UK FTA WILL ENSURE THE CONTINUITY Intangible Cultural Heritage List. at the webinar on the December 16 European Council. The European Commission OF BILATERAL TRADE UNDER SIMILAR announced the completion of IKV Secretary General Nas attended contracting under the 6 billion 17 the event on the modernisation of CONDITIONS ” euro Refugee Facility. the Customs Union. 18 The closing meeting of the “EU KV Chairman Ayhan Zeytinoğlu, in Monitoring Network” Project Ia statement on 29 December 2020, jointly conducted by IKV, YADA welcomed the signature of a Free 19 and TAV was held online. Trade Agreement (FTA) between Turkey and the UK and stated that 20 the signature of the FTA right after the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation The first COVID-19 vaccine was Agreement, was a big success on authorised in the EU. 21 IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu issued a statement stressing the need to the part of the Turkish Trade Ministry The ECHR delivered its final accelerate reforms to revitalise the which had been conducting bilateral judgement on the Demirtaş case. 22 negotiations with the UK during the concerned about the possibility of which will allow deepening bilateral relations with the EU. transition period. IKV Chairman made a ‘No-Deal Brexit’. With the EU-UK trade and investment relations.” The EU extended two the following statement: Agreement, sector representatives will Lastly, IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu humanitarian programmes for 23 “The UK is a crucial trade partner be able to breathe again. On the other talked about the possible implications refugees in Turkey. for Turkey, as our second biggest hand, although the Turkey-UK FTA of the Turkey-UK FTA on the The EU and UK reached a deal on 24 export market after Germany. will ensure the continuity of bilateral modernisation of the Turkey-EU post-Brexit trade relations. Moreover, the UK is the 6th biggest relations concerning industrial goods Customs Union and said:“The economy in the world. Last year, our 25 IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu assessed and processed agricultural products, modernisation of the Customs Union bilateral trade volume reached 25.25 it will be based on country of origin with the EU, which is Turkey’s top the EU-UK Trade Agreement in a billion dollars, while during the first 11 certificates as the Customs Union trade partner, has not started due 26 statement. months of 2020, Turkey’s exports to between Turkey and the UK will cease to political reasons. Nevertheless, the UK were around 10 billion dollars to exist. on 1 October, the European Council despite the conditions created by the 27 The Turkey-UK FTA will ensure proposed a positive political agenda pandemic. The Turkey-UK FTA, which continuity of trade without any for Turkey which included the will enter into force on 1 January tariffs or quotas. In the deal, there is modernisation of the Customs Union. 28 2021, will ensure the continuity also a provision allowing the parties The issue will be negotiated at the of trade relations between Turkey to negotiate the scope of bilateral European Council in March 2021. The Turkey and UK signed a Free Issue 25 • December 2016 3 IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu issued a and the UK. The representatives of trade relations and to expand them fact that Turkey has signed an FTA Trade Agreement. 29 statement on the Turkey-UK Free sectors such as gold, textile, garment, into new sectors by 2022. Therefore, could be an incentive to accelerate Trade Agreement. automotive, home appliances, it will be possible for bilateral trade the modernisation of the Turkey-EU EU and China concluded 30 machinery, iron, and steel which are relations to expand into areas such as Customs Union, which would be a the negotiations for a among our top exports to the UK and services, digital tools, and agriculture. positive achievement for reaching Comprehensive Agreement on sectors that are highly dependent This will pave the way for a deep and Turkey’s export goals and reflect Investment. 31 on imports from the UK were deeply comprehensive trade agreement positively on foreign investments.”

ISSUE 68 . January 2021  19 65 1 1965 ISSUE: 68 JANUARY 2021 9 65 2018

IKV AGENDA

THE POST-BREXIT DEAL HAS BEEN AGREED: HOW WILL IT AFFECT TURKEY?

he UK will leave EU negotiate and conclude its own Tmembership on 31 December trade agreements. It will be able 2020. The negotiations on the new to implement different norms and relationship between the UK and standards. CLOSING MEETING OF THE EU the EU have been very difficult In case of a no-deal Brexit, and after months, a compromise Turkey would be among the MONITORING NETWORK WAS was finally reached. In this way, most affected parties after the the threat of a no-deal Brexit was EU. In this respect, the agreement HELD ONLINE prevented. On 25 December 2020, comes as a huge relief especially to IKV Chairman Ayhan Zeytinoğlu Turkish exporters. Leaving the EU, he closing meeting of the project EU Affairs, Bülent Özcan underlined the issued a statement assessing the the UK will also leave the Ankara Tentitled “EU Monitoring Network” crucial role of civil society in Turkey’s EU-UK agreement on post-Brexit Agreement on the basis of which jointly carried out by IKV, Turkey alignment with the EU acquis. relations. IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu the Customs Union had been Europe Foundation (TAV), and YADA Following the presentation welcomed the agreement and moment. The EU demanded that founded. For this reason, there is Foundation was held on 18 December delivered by the YADA Foundation stated that the compromise EU fishermen continue fishing a need for a new agreement to 2020. The project has been conducted on their civil society research reached on the outstanding issues in UK territorial waters while the regulate the relations between under the Grant Programme for conducted via interviews with 1,000 Partnerships and Networks for CSO representatives, an interactive was also a positive development UK wanted to limit this right. It the two parties. Turkey’s Ministry Strengthening of the Cooperation play session took place among the for Turkey. He made the following is a welcome development that of Trade has made significant between Public Sector and CSOs since participants. In the last session of the remarks: an agreement involving trade progress in the negotiations of October 2018 with joint activities of the meeting, a panel discussion was held “Brexit, which has been going in goods and services has finally this new agreement with the UK three partners. on the third term of IPA funds and on for more than four years, and been reached. With the mutual and the negotiations are about During the meeting, which potential implications for Turkish civil the process of concluding a new maintenance of zero tariffs and to be completed. Now that an consisted of three parts, IKV Secretary society. During the panel, Richard agreement between the UK zero quotas, annual trade worth agreement has been reached General Assoc. Prof. Çiğdem Nas Youngs, Senior Fellow at Carnegie and the EU is finally about to be approximately 1 trillion dollars is between the UK and the EU, it will delivered an opening speech Europe, Biljana Spasovska, Executive completed. In the negotiations that guaranteed. However, there may be possible for this agreement to emphasizing the importance of Director at Balkan Civil Society have been going on for months, no be some commercial difficulties, swiftly come into effect. In this the project and IKV’s dedication to Development Network, and Mustafa agreement was reached on three delays and backlogs arising way, commercial losses will be improving Turkey-EU relations. After Murat Özçelebi, EU Expert at the issues: Fishing rights, level playing from border controls, regulatory prevented. For the continuation the speeches delivered by TAV Chair Directorate for EU Affairs, shared their field provisions, implementation differences, and bureaucratic of exports, we hope that this Tevfik Altınok and YADA Vice Chair ideas and commented on the changing of the agreement and dispute procedures. As a result, the EU new agreement will be approved Ceylan Özünel Sül, Director General priorities and funding allocations of the and UK will now operate as resolution. Negotiations on fishing quickly and become effective as for Financial Cooperation and Project new IPA term from both the EU’s and separate markets. The UK will now continued until the very last soon as possible.” Implementation at the Directorate for candidate countries’ perspective. IKV SECRETARY GENERAL NAS ASSESSED TURKEY-EU RELATIONS IN ONLINE EVENTS

Turkey and Turkey-EU Foundation (TURABDER) on the occasion of 10 December Human Rights Day. Prof. Sinem Akmeşe from Kadir Has University and Prof. Zeynep Alemdar from Okan University were the other speakers to address the symposium. On 17 December, IKV Secretary General Nas made a presentation concerning the European Green Deal and its importance for Turkey at the IKV DEPUTY SECRETARY Automotive Distributors’ Association n December, IKV Secretary and Fatih Ebiçlioğlu discussed (ODD) Board meeting. GENERAL KİLİT ATTENDED THE IGeneral Assoc. Prof. Çiğdem Nas the European Green Deal in the On 29 December, IKV Secretary spoke at various online events on context of Turkey-EU relations. On General Nas participated in the NATIONAL AGENCY ADVISORY different dimensions of Turkey-EU 16 December, IKV Secretary General webinar on “Turkish Foreign Policy relations. On 2 December 2020, IKV Nas attended the webinar on the in 2021” hosted by the Foundation Secretary General Nas participated “European Council Conclusions and for Political, Economic and Social BOARD MEETING in the webinar on “Turkey-EU and Turkey” held within the same scope Research (SETA) and delivered a KV Deputy Secretary General Turkish National Agency İlker the Green Deal” which was jointly and assessed the outcome of the presentation on “Expectations for M. Gökhan Kilit attended the Astarcı delivered the opening organised by Medyascope and the European Council meeting together Turkey-EU Relations in 2021”. SETA I Erasmus+ and ESC Programme speeches of the meeting which Global Relations Forum (GRF) within with Ambassador Yenel, Dr. Kaleağası, Brussels Coordinator Talha Köse 2020 Advisory Committee was attended by over 100 the scope of Turkey and Europe Prof. Senem Aydın-Düzgit from was the moderator of the panel the Meeting held online by the representatives from institutions 5.0 webinar series. Attending the Sabancı University, Prof. Atila Eralp speakers of which included Centre Turkish National Agency on 21 and organisations operating in webinar alongside IKV Secretary and Prof. Nilgün Arısan Eralp. for Iranian Studies Foreign Policy December 2020. Deputy Minister various fields. The representatives General Nas, GRF Executive President IKV Secretary General Nas Coordinator Bilgehan Alagöz, SETA of Foreign Affairs and Director shared their recommendations on Ambassador (R) Selim Yenel, spoke at the symposium entitled Washington Coordinator Kılıç Buğra for EU Affairs Ambassador Faruk the implementation of Erasmus + Bosphorus Institute President Dr. “Europe and Turkey Seeking Their Kanat and Prof. Vişne Korkmaz from Kaymakcı and Director of the and ESC Programmes. Bahadır Kaleağası, Prof. Erinç Yeldan Story” organised jointly by DIEM25 Nişantaşı University.

 ISSUE 68 . January 2021 19 65 1965 www.ikv.org.tr 19 65 2018

TURKEY-EU WATCH EU AND UK AGREED ON A LANDMARK POST-BREXIT TRADE DEAL On 24 December, ending months of uncertainty, the EU and the UK reached a breakthrough Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

inally, a long-awaited transport and details on passenger cooperation regarding cross-border Fpost-Brexit deal defining the rights. security and fight against terrorism. terms for a future trade relationship With respect to services, the UK Last but not least are the provisions between the UK and the EU was seems to have lost considerable establishing the terms for the announced on 24 December 2020, access to the EU market in financial governance of the agreement as just a week before the end of the services as the agreement pertaining well as the dispute resolution and transition period and just in time to this area does not allow for retaliation mechanisms in case of a for Christmas. It happens to be passporting of financial services. breach. the largest bilateral trade deal in Also, the mutual recognition of Next step is the approval of history and is also said to be the professional qualifications will the deal by all 27 EU Member first modern trade deal to dissolve a no longer be automatic. There is, States, as well as by the UK and the trading partnership. however, a very strong emphasis on European Parliament. The Member The Brexit saga began after a the issue of ensuring a level playing States are expected to give their referendum in the UK revealed field and fair competition in areas like approval before 31 December for a leave vote in support of Brexit intense talks. “A long and winding The free trade agreement climate change and workers’ rights, the provisional agreement to take in June 2016. The UK’s decision road”, in the words of Ursula governing the UK-EU trade relations tax and state aid. effect which will give time to the EP to leave the EU took effect on 31 von der Leyen, came to an end, will be based on zero tariffs and zero On fisheries, another problematic until 28 February 2021 to vote on the January 2020 with the transition resulting in a “fair and balanced quotas, starting from 1 January 2021. area during the negotiations, the agreement retrospectively. British period ending on 31 December deal” for both sides. Boris Johnson It allows for tariff-free and quota-free EU and the UK have agreed on a MPs are expected to vote on the deal 2020. The UK is out of the EU as declared it a victory by saying that trade in goods, provided they meet transition period of five and a half next week; it is not expected to face of 1 January 2021. The issue was the UK is out of the customs union the rules of origin that determine years, giving the EU guaranteed significant opposition. whether there would be a and out of the Single Market and how much content in a product access to UK waters until a 25% Life will not be smooth after 1 post-Brexit deal or not. After has “taken control of our laws and must be derived from a nation cut is reached in the share of fish January 2021 for neither the EU nor four long years of speculations destiny”. bound by the agreement, includes caught by EU vessels in UK waters. the UK; however, as the experts say, and many missed deadlines, the The deal is based on three rules on technical specifications That is a compromise for both sides even a “thin” trade deal is better than breakthrough came when the UK pillars: a free trade agreement and which can constitute regulatory compared to their initial demands. no deal for the future of the trade Prime Minister Boris Johnson and cooperation, a new partnership barriers based on the automotive, Other chapters include relations as it at least provides for European Commission President for the citizens’ security and an chemical, pharmaceutical, organic provisions relating to air and road a legal platform for rebuilding the Ursula von der Leyen took the agreement on the governance of produce and wine sectors and gives transport, energy, data flows, relationship and that cooperation is control in their hands and started the terms of the deal made. unlimited access for air and road coordination of social security issues, always better than confrontation.

DRAFT REPORT ON TURKEY PRESENTED IN AFET MINIATURE AND MANGALA ADDED TO UNESCO LIST The draft report prepared by the EP Rapporteur on Turkey Nacho Sánchez Amor, emphasizes that Turkey-EU relations have reached a “historical low point”.

n 3 December 2020, Nacho Sánchez OAmor presented the draft 2019-2020 Report on Turkey in the EP’s Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET). It is the first report prepared by Nacho Sánchez Amor who n 16 December 2020, the Turkish Ministry of was appointed as the EP Rapporteur on Foreign Affairs announced the inclusion of Turkey in October 2019. Even though in the O the “Art of Miniature”, which is an art form of the previous annual report, the EP had called medieval period that realistically portrayed events on the Commission to formally suspend while adhering to the traditional rules of Islamic the accession negotiations with Turkey, art, into UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage the 2019-2020 Report goes in line with the List. A day later, Turkish intelligence and strategy European Council’s conclusions of 1 October board game “Mangala” was added to the UNESCO 2020 proposing a positive agenda to restore List. During Ottoman times, the game which Turkey-EU relations. Following this initiative, had been played especially in palaces, inns, and the draft report suggests reviewing bilateral As an overall assessment on Turkey’s one of the main areas causing regression courtyards of mosques, was considered a tool for relations in a comprehensive way to decide EU accession negotiations, the draft report in the relations. Thirdly, the draft report socialisation and culture sharing. on the best model of relationship for both points to three areas as the main reason voices concern over Turkey’s foreign policy The decision to add the Art of Miniature parties while underlining the urgency of for the current situation. Firstly, backsliding preferences claiming that they are perceived and Mangala to the UNESCO List was made restoring mutual trust. As a continuation of on the rule of law and fundamental rights, confrontational by both Member States and during the 15th Session of Intergovernmental the previous report, the modernisation of the which the European Commission states in the EU. Also, the increasing anti-EU narrative Committee for the Safeguarding of the Turkey-EU Customs Union, which is described Turkey Reports since 2015, is depicted as is mentioned as deeply worrying, leading Intangible Cultural Heritage held online as mutually beneficial, is once again the crucial reason for the lack of progress in the EP to call on Turkey to reassess its between 14-19 December 2020. With the recommended. Moreover, Customs Union the accession negotiations. The EP Report commitment to the accession negotiations latest additions, the number of Turkey’s cultural modernisation is suggested as an incentive to also refers to the changes in the political and to decide on a comprehensive strategy elements on the UNESCO List of Intangible keep Turkey not only economically but most system in Turkey while describing them for the next years regarding its relations with Cultural Heritage has reached 20. importantly, normatively “anchored to the EU”. as “regressive institutional reforms” and as the EU.

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TURKEY-EU WATCH

US SANCTIONS SPARKED NORTH MACEDONIA’S EU PATH AT AN CRITICISM FROM TURKEY IMPASSE DUE TO BULGARIA’S VETO fter spending 15 years in the EU’s Turkey to resolve the issue of S-400 missiles in Awaiting room and getting 10 favourable coordination with the US and not operationalise recommendations from the European them. It has since been an unresolved problem; Commission, North Macedonia was finally one with a potential sanctions outcome. After expecting to start EU accession talks in Turkey has tested the missiles off the Black December this year. However, the launch Sea coast in October this year, both the US of EU accession talks has been stalled once Departments of Defence and State condemned again, this time due to Bulgaria’s veto on the test but no action was taken until 14 the country’s negotiating framework. On 17 December. November 2020, Sofia has formally declared The US decision to impose sanctions that it could not approve the proposed n a press statement on 14 December 2020, sparked criticism from Turkey. Turkey’s Ministry negotiating framework for North Macedonia IUS Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo of Foreign Affairs denounced the US decision in in its current form, effectively blocking the announced that the United States is imposing a written statement. Referring to the US claim launch of the talks. Arguing that Macedonian sanctions on the Republic of Turkey’s Presidency that the S-400 missiles are not suitable with is a dialect of the Bulgarian language, Sofia of Defence Industries (SSB). The sanctions NATO systems as “devoid of any technical merit”, has been objecting to the use of the term Following the Commission’s presentation on are imposed based on Section 231 of the the statement added that Turkey has repeatedly “Macedonian language” in the negotiating 5 February 2020 of the revised enlargement Countering America’s Adversaries Through offered to form a technical working group with framework. Bulgaria would like to see the methodology largely modelled after French Sanctions Act (CAATSA) for “knowingly engaging NATO to handle the issue objectively and yet references to Macedonian language replaced proposals, Skopje and Tirana finally received in a significant transaction with Rosoboronexport no steps have been taken on the matter. The by the formulation “the language according a green light from the EU Council to start (ROE), Russia’s main arms export entity, by statement continued by saying that “Turkey will to the Constitution of North Macedonia”. accession negotiations on 25 March 2020. procuring the S-400 surface-to-air missile system”, take the necessary steps against this decision, Sofia has also raised objections concerning The Commission presented the negotiating seen as one of the most advanced missile which will negatively affect our relations and interpretation of certain historical events frameworks for the two EU-hopefuls in July, systems in the world, capable of tracking several will retaliate in a manner and timing it deems and personalities and demanded Skopje and the first Intergovernmental Conferences, targets simultaneously. The sanctions include a appropriate” and urged “the US to reconsider to give up its claims on the existence of a which would mark the formal start of ban on all US export licenses and authorisations this unfair decision as announced today and to Macedonian minority in Bulgaria. accession negotiations, were planned to to SSB and an asset freeze and visa restrictions on rectify this grave mistake as soon as possible, A candidate country since 2005, North be convened before the end of Germany’s SSB’s president and other SSB officers. Experts say while emphasizing once again that Turkey Macedonia has faced numerous hurdles and EU term presidency. Since EU leaders are this is the first time the United States deployed stands ready to address this issue through long delays on its EU path. The country’s in favour of treating Albania and North CAATSA legislation against a NATO ally. dialogue and diplomacy in conformity with the EU accession process had been previously Macedonia together as a package, this also The sanctions came in response to Turkey’s spirit of alliance.” Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt delayed for nearly a decade due to Greece’s implies a delay for the launch of Tirana’s purchase of S-400 missiles from Russia when Çavuşoğlu is said to discuss the sanctions with veto in the Council over the quarter century accession talks, which has made progress in Turkey’s efforts to buy an air defence system US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo the day after long “name dispute”. Skopje cleared this block fulfilling the additional conditions outlined by from the US didn’t reach a conclusion in 2017. the announcement was made. Turkish officials on its EU path by agreeing to change its name the Council. This has proved to be very controversial since on many levels criticised the US decision stating to “North Macedonia” under the landmark Speaking after the General Affairs Turkey is a NATO ally and US officials claim that the sanctions will not prevent Turkey from Prespa Agreement signed with Athens in June Council meeting on 8 December, where no that the S-400 system poses a risk to the NATO taking the necessary steps for furthering the 2018. Then, the country’s EU hopes were once breakthrough on the issue was possible, alliance. The issue went as far as Turkey being goals of the country’s defence industry and again dashed due to France’s insistence on the Germany’s Minister for EU Affairs Michael Roth suspended from the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter protecting Turkey’s national security. Defence reform of the EU’s enlargement methodology expressed his disappointment and criticised partnership, raised questions in relation to NATO Minister Hulusi Akar said that sanctions are as a pre-condition for the launch of accession Bulgaria’s stance as a bitter blow to EU’s and soured the relations between Turkey and inconsistent with its NATO partnership and the talks with North Macedonia and Albania. Western Balkans policy. the US, to say the very least. The US has told current military and political realities.

EU FINALISED CONTRACTING THE 6 BILLION EURO “MİLAS OLIVE OIL” RECEIVED EU REFUGEE FACILITY FOR TURKEY PDO STATUS n 17 December 2020, the and Somalia, Turkey is home to n 23 December 2020, the “Milas European Commission the largest refugee community in O Olive Oil” (Milas Zeytinyağı), announced that it has finalised the the world. O an extra virgin olive oil produced contracting of the 6-billion-euro On 23 December 2020, the exclusively from “Memecik” variety worth Refugee Facility in Turkey, European Commission announced olives grown in Milas province, formally which is a crucial component of that the Emergency Social Safety obtained Protected Designation of the 2016 Turkey-EU Statement, by Net (ESSN) and Conditional Origin (PDO) status, becoming the fifth signing the last eight contracts Cash Transfers for Education Turkish product to be registered in the amounting to 780 million (CCTE) programmes, which list of food products and specialties euros. The recently signed are two flagship humanitarian protected by the EU. Turkey has contracts cover support for basic programmes supported under consistently proved itself in this area needs, health care, protection, the Facility for Refugees in Turkey, with numerous Turkish food products “Bayramiç White” (Bayramiç Beyazı), community infrastructure, as have been extended until early namely; the “Malatya Apricot” (Malatya which is a special sort of nectarine well as training, employment cooperation particularly in the 2022. As the largest EU-funded having a sweet, aromatic and slightly and business development for areas of health and education. humanitarian programme ESSN is Kayısısı), “Aydın Fig” (Aydın İnciri) and acidic taste, and “Taşköprü Garlic” refugees and vulnerable groups. He pledged EU’s support for the helping over 1.8 million refugees “Aydın Chestnut” (Aydın Kestanesi) European Commissioner for refugees and host communities meet their basic needs through obtaining PDO, and the “Gaziantep (Taşköprü Sarımsağı), which is known Neighbourhood and Enlargement in Turkey. As it is known, hosting monthly cash assistance while Baklava” (Gaziantep Baklavası) obtaining for its bitterness, strong smell and high Olivér Várhelyi, in a written 4 million refugees 3.6 million CCTE, which is the largest Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) medicinal qualities, was published statement, hailed the completion of which are Syrians under EU-funded humanitarian status. in the EU Official Journal on 16 and of contracting as an extraordinary temporary protection and around education programme, is Moreover, two additional Turkish 17 December, respectively. If no achievement and commended 370 thousand registered refugees supporting over 700 thousand agricultural products are on the way opposition is raised within three the Turkish authorities for their mainly from Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran children continue their education. to receive PDO status. The application months, the two products will formally for inclusion in the EU’s PDO list for be added to the PDO list.

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HIGH-LEVEL EXCHANGES

FOREIGN MINISTER ÇAVUŞOĞLU HAD DIPLOMATIC EXCHANGES AT NATO AND EU LEVEL

PRESIDENT ERDOĞAN ADDRESSED OECD’S 60TH

ANNIVERSARY EVENT n December, Turkish Foreign Minister On 8 December, Çavuşoğlu came IMevlüt Çavuşoğlu attended the NATO together with Hungarian Minister of Foreign urkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan refugees, displaced people, and play a pioneering Foreign Ministers Meeting and met with Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto who was on Tdelivered a video message for the 60th role in fighting poverty and social injustice. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto in a working visit to Turkey. Cooperation in the anniversary of the Organisation for Economic President Erdoğan also underscored Turkey’s Ankara. Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, bilateral Co-operation and Development (OECD) economic performance and noted that Turkey firstly participated in the NATO Foreign relations, regional developments and Turkey-EU on 14 December 2020. President Erdoğan was the only country among OECD members Ministers Meeting held via video conference relations were the main topics discussed in the hailed the OECD as an important player in the showing positive GDP growth despite the COVID- on 1 and 2 December 2020. During the meeting between the two foreign ministers. global economy and pointed to its role in the 19 pandemic. Underlining that the pandemic meeting, Foreign Minister Çavuşoğlu Speaking at the joint press conference with international treaties through setting standards, has exposed global vulnerabilities and the exchanged views on the situation in his Hungarian counterpart, Foreign Minister making recommendations and preparing interdependence among countries, President Nagorno-Karabakh, Eastern Mediterranean, Çavuşoğlu underscored Turkey’s expectation analyses. Erdoğan elaborated on the Turkish government’s Libya, and the illegal inspection of a for the EU to assume an honest broker role President Erdoğan noted that Turkey had policies aiming at protecting public health Turkish-flagged commercial vessel by and act with principles, strategy and wisdom built active cooperation and solidarity with and supporting businesses. Finally, stating that forces operating under EU’s Operation Irini. in its relations with Turkey. In the context of third countries under OECD’s goals of securing Turkey’s economy registered 6.7% of year-on-year Foreign Minister Çavuşoğlu stressed Turkey’s the visit, Szijjarto was received by President balanced economic growth and development, growth in the third quarter of this year, President support for the sovereignty and territorial Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Also, Szijjarto co-chaired as well as rising prosperity and employment. Erdoğan emphasized that Turkey performed integrity of Ukraine and Georgia in the the 7th Session of the Turkish-Hungarian Joint Moreover, President Erdoğan argued that the better than numerous countries, including EU special session dedicated to security in the Economic Commission with Turkey’s Industry OECD should prioritise developing countries, members and fellow OECD countries. Black Sea region. and Technology Minister Mustafa Varank.

TURKEY’S COVID-19 VACCINATION WORLD LEADERS ADDRESSED THE PLANS AT A GLANCE UNGA SPECIAL SESSION ON COVID-19

Turkey has also been negotiating with a number of different companies for COVID-19 vaccines. Within this scope, an agreement was reached for the vaccine developed by BioNTech and Pfizer and 550 thousand doses of vaccine would come at the first stage. The co-founder of BioNTech Prof. Uğur Şahin, who is of Turkish origin, stated that they were willing to send at least 30 million doses to Turkey in the coming months. According to Turkey’s current vaccination plans, health care providers and people older than 65 years of age are going to be among n today’s world of approximately 80 million the first group to be vaccinated. Afterwards, Iinfections and 1.8 million deaths due to the the vaccination is envisaged to continue in four n 3 and 4 December 2020, the UN importance of transparency in factual coronavirus pandemic, developments regarding groups. Pregnant women, teenagers under the age OGeneral Assembly (UNGA) held a information on cases and treatments made COVID-19 vaccines are curiously watched. Similar of 18 and people who got infected within the last special session dedicated to the COVID-19 in countries. Moreover, Guterres warned that to other countries in the world, Turkey has been four to six months are not going to be included pandemic. World leaders submitted ignoring the guidance of the WHO might working intensively to elaborate vaccination in Turkey’s vaccination plans. The Chinese vaccine pre-recorded video statements for the have inevitably hazardous consequences plans which were announced by the country’s has a two-dose usage within a time period of 14 special meeting providing an opportunity for the global society. Thus, unity and Health Minister Fahrettin Koca in the early days to 21 days. As stated by Health Minister Koca, the for member states, the UN system and coherence in sharing factual information of December. According to Minister Koca’s vaccines will be free of charge and vaccination other relevant actors to decide a joint and developments on COVID-19 cases are statements, Turkey made an agreement to buy will not be mandatory. Turkey is also carrying on course of action in combating the vital, he stressed. 50 million doses of the vaccine developed by studies regarding its national COVID-19 vaccine pandemic. In his address to the UNGA, Representing the EU at the meeting, the Chinese company Sinovac to be completed which is expected to be ready for use in April emphasizing the need to reform the President of the European Council Charles in three batches until the end of February 2021. 2021. By the end of June 2021, a total of 60 to UN system in line with global changes, Michel underscored the indispensability Minister Koca also underlined Turkey’s willingness 65 million people are planned to be vaccinated Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of international cooperation and called and efforts to guarantee the purchase of more against COVID-19 in Turkey. In addition to family stressed that the General Assembly for an international treaty on pandemics vaccines. Subsequent to the arrival of the vaccines health centres, community health centres and should be consolidated to become more within the framework of the WHO since from China, they are going to be tested by the hospitals, occupational health doctors are going effective, democratic, fair and transparent. it is the most prominent international Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices Agency to be assigned to vaccinate people in organised For his part, UN Secretary-General organisation concerning global health for approximately two weeks. industrial zones and big companies. António Guterres highlighted the matters.

ISSUE 68 . January 2021  19 65 1 1965 ISSUE: 68 JANUARY 2021 9 65 2018

EXPERT VIEW

TIME FOR A “FAIR, GREEN AND DIGITAL” EU PRESIDENCY: THE FOCUS AND PRIORITIES OF THE PORTUGUESE EU PRESIDENCY Portugal, which took over the Presidency of the EU Council from Germany on 1 January 2021, shaped its 6-month agenda along with “fair, green and digital recovery” priorities.

Selvi EREN the same time, while emphasizing • Social Europe: IKV Junior Researcher the importance of reducing the Strengthening and EU’s external dependence; Portugal promoting the European indicated its aim in the review and social model strengthening of trade, food safety While the “social pillar” added and SMEs in the aftermath of the to the EU literature by the Juncker t the beginning of 2020, COVID-19 pandemic. In addition Commission is depicted as one Portuguese Foreign to the protection of the EU’s of the six priorities of the von der Minister Augusto Santos A fundamental values, it is underlined Leyen Commission; it also stands out Silva announced that the priorities that within the framework of the as a policy area that Portugal aims to for Portugal’s Presidency of the EU New Pact on Migration and Asylum, highlight during its EU presidency. Council, which will be held for the efforts will continue to focus on the It is planned that a Summit under fourth time since its accession to comprehensive nature of migration the theme of “European Pillar of the EU in 1986, were shaped on the policies to include both regular and Social Rights” will be held in the city basis of the challenges faced by the irregular migration while tackling of Porto in May and even an action EU. However, the EU’s priorities and any sort of human rights violations. plan will be adopted as the output agenda, which felt the multi-faceted of the Summit. Drawing attention effects of the coronavirus pandemic • Green Europe: Promoting to the importance of realising all as of March, had to be reshaped the EU as a leader in highlighted reform ideas and activity around the unexpected COVID-19 • To strengthen Europe’s Euro Area since the first day of its climate action agendas “without leaving anyone pandemic. In this context, after strategic autonomy keeping it establishment on 1 January 1999 As a line directly linked to the behind”, Portugal paves the way for Croatia spent half of its first-ever open to the world. and joined the Schengen Zone on European Green Deal, Portugal the strengthening of social policies EU presidency managing the panic Portugal assumes the Presidency 26 March 1995. Portugal represents also pledges that it will endeavour and for all citizens to benefit fairly wave created by the pandemic, of the European Council in a period 2% of the EU population, and has 21 to approve the first Climate Law and equally from the outcomes of Germany struggled to steer the when the EU is on the edge of seats in the EP. Moreover, Portugal of the Union during its term the changes to be experienced. budget discussions during its transformation on many issues after holds the portfolio of Cohesion and presidency. Portugal specifically presidency where the fight against a period of multi-faceted discussions Reforms in the Ursula von der Leyen pays attention to the transformation • Global Europe: Promoting the coronavirus was articulated. on the axes of the Brexit, 2021-2027 Commission led by Portuguese Elisa in the Common Agricultural Policy Europe’s openness to the Having achieved important gains budget, COVID-19 and the Green Ferreira, which reveals Portugal’s and the Common Fisheries Policy, world in this regard, Germany also guided Deal. Accordingly, Portugal will have motivation to have a say in the which will be prioritised accordingly. Portugal, attaching great those that would later take over the opportunity to play a role in the reforms shaping the future of the EU Accelerating the changes necessary importance to strengthening relations the presidency. In this direction, implementation of these decisions. within the 2019-2024 Commission. for the adoption of the circular with third countries, especially Portugal, which has to adapt its Being aware of both the chance Strengthening that motivation with economy in all sub-sectors in order with the UK and the USA, and for priorities to the current reality of and responsibility to coordinate key a focus on social, economic and to achieve the “Carbon Neutral communication channels to work in fighting COVID-19, positions itself as transformations in a challenging political transformation, Portugal Europe” goal by 2050, describes the a healthy and transparent manner, an actor that will play a critical role in time, Portugal is keen to make also added the fight against the key motivation for this line of action. pledges to reinforce the EU’s position the period of shaping the European concrete contributions to European coronavirus in a bid to pursue a as a global actor. Under the last line future. integration. holistic EU presidency. • Digital Europe: of action, further improvement of Having previously assumed the Accelerating digital relations with Mediterranean countries Highlights of the Portuguese Portugal’s EU Journey and Aimed EU’s rotating presidency three times, transformation in the could be argued as consisting of steps EU Presidency and the Three Contributions to European in 1992, 2000 and 2007, the country service of citizens and to resolve the tension with Turkey in Priorities Integration has been prepared for the fourth enterprises the Eastern Mediterranean, which For the Presidency of the As a result of the Carnation time to take effective steps both in Portugal has added reveals a positive signal. However, Council of the EU which will last until Revolution launched in 1974 under the Union’s domestic and foreign digitalisation to its EU presidency the frame strictly described as 30 June 2021, Portugal determined the leadership of General Antonio policy, within the scope of five lines activities within the framework of “neighbours and relations with third five fields of action within the de Spinola, the fascist Salazar regime of action. the Commission’s “Digital Decade” countries”, shows that a priority within framework of three major priorities was overthrown and a democratic objective, thus reminding us once the framework of Turkey’s accession driven by its motto “Time to deliver: a government system based on • Resilient Europe: again that digital reforms are negotiations is not included in the fair, green and digital recovery”: semi-presidency was created in Promoting Europe’s indispensable in the realisation of Portuguese Presidency. On the other • To promote Europe’s recovery, the country. The Constitution of recovery, cohesion and all the other priorities. Digital tools, hand, pledging to organise the 6th leveraged by the climate and the Portuguese Republic adopted values which directly touch various policy EU-Africa Summit in a bid to digital transitions, on 2 December 1976, defined the This aim, which is stated as areas, including intellectual property, strengthen the cooperation between • To implement the Social Pillar government system as a democratic the first field of action of the three industry, justice, transportation, European and African continents, of the European Union as a key republic. major priorities, reveals that the organic agriculture, health, and Portugal has also revealed its initiative element for ensuring a fair and Portugal acceded to the EU targets of the EU budget, which research and innovation, are also to host a meeting of European leaders inclusive climate and digital together with Spain on 1 January is focused on combating the positioned as key to progress in with the Indian Prime Minister in transition, 1986 and has been included in the coronavirus, will be achieved. At these areas. Porto in May 2021.

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