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ISSUE: 71 APRIL 2021 www.ikv.org.tr / contact: [email protected] TURKEY-EU RELATIONS IN THE WAKE OF THE MARCH EUROPEAN COUNCIL: TOWARDS A POSITIVE AGENDA?

A revitalisation of Turkey-EU relations is urgently needed for both parties and will entail both de-escalation in the foreign policy domain and building of cooperation and trust as well as progress in the human rights, democracy and rule of law situation in Turkey.

Assoc. Prof. Çiğdem NAS Statement of the Members of the EU and Member State interests again, European Council did not include then it would use “the instruments IKV Secretary General a harsh criticism regarding these and options at its disposal to defend developments and accorded the its interests…”. Such instruments that urkey-EU relations have 8th place to the rule of law and could be used against Turkey were followed a bumpy path since fundamental rights question among not elaborated in the statement. T2016. The year 2020 was a total of 11 points (point 16 under However, the report titled “State of especially challenging because the title of “Eastern Mediterranean” play of EU-Turkey political, economic of rising tensions in the Eastern starting with point 9). Moreover, the and trade relations” prepared by the Mediterranean in addition to the debate about Turkey-EU relations European Commission and High dire effects of the coronavirus was under the title of the “Eastern Representative Borrell detailed the pandemic. Seismic explorations Mediterranean” giving pundits an possible sanctions that could be for hydrocarbons off the coast of idea about the lenses through which employed against Turkey such as and in the Aegean exposed the EU has been eyeing Turkey lately. adoption of additional listings for flashpoints in the region emanating The EU Leaders’ Statement restrictive measures, restrictions from the unsettled Cyprus question noted “the EU’s strategic interest in on economic cooperation, sectoral and bilateral disputes between a stable and secure environment in measures such as prohibition to Turkey and . Moreover, the Eastern Mediterranean and in supply of tourism services, and Turkey’s assertive foreign policy and the development of a cooperative additional measures in energy and operations regarding Syria, Libya and mutually beneficial relationship related sectors such as import/export with Turkey”, and welcomed bans on goods and technologies. and Nagorno-Karabakh conflicts conversation between Turkish and governor who was an internationally “the recent de-escalation in the The implementation of such clashed with EU and its Member French Presidents, exploratory renowned technocrat with a more Eastern Mediterranean through the sanctions, which would go beyond State interests. Such developments talks between Turkey and Greece controversial figure and the opening discontinuation of illegal drilling the framework of Turkey-EU relations increased the EU’s threat assessment restarted after five years. Germany’s of the closure case against the activities, the resumption of bilateral but would target the already fragile vis-à-vis Turkey while it led Turkey Minister for Foreign Affairs, Heiko Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) and talks between Greece and Turkey Turkish economy, could have drastic to question the EU’s support for its Maas’ visit to Turkey took place in the lifting of immunity for yet another and the forthcoming talks on the effects on stability in Turkey. Hence, security. The growing rift between an amicable atmosphere as did one of its members of Parliament. Cyprus problem under the auspices while the focus of the European Turkey and the EU created a Turkey’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, While the withdrawal from the of the United Nations”. Hence, it Council is on rewarding the recent paradoxical situation in the relations: Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu’s visit to Brussels. Istanbul Convention had a symbolic may be evaluated that the recent de-escalation in the Eastern Will Turkey continue as a candidate President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan significance regarding the Turkish change in Turkey’s policy in the Mediterranean and kick off a more to join the EU or will a different sort reiterated Turkey’s strategic goal government’s adherence to women’s Eastern Mediterranean pleased the amicable relationship based on of relationship emerge which will be of EU membership noting that rights and gender equality, coupled EU and tilted the balance in favour mutual interests, the sanctions toolkit more conflictual than cooperative? accepting Turkey as a Member State with the disregard for the European of positive measures to revitalize is developed behind the scenes in The EU mostly led by would be an ontological choice Court of Human Rights decisions and Turkey-EU relations. The leaders also order to be availed in case of a return Germany and facilitated by High for the EU. These overtures were delay in the ratification of the Paris added that the situation in the region to tension and crises in the region. Representative for Foreign Affairs and followed by an intensifying discourse Climate Agreement it also attests to was still fragile and more time was In a nutshell, Turkey-EU relations Security Policy Josep Borrell aimed on reform culminating in President a falling out with multilateralism and needed in order to reach a definitive are at a crossroads. Although Turkey to prevent the further deterioration Erdoğan’s declaration of a Human global norms. The sudden change view on the implementation of the is still a candidate country to the EU, in Turkey-EU relations through the Rights Action Plan and an Economic in the Central Bank raises questions positive measures. The EU put forth it is no longer regarded as a genuine proposition of a positive agenda. Reform Package. What proved about economic governance in three positive measures in order to candidate by the EU and its Member The positive agenda included to be quite problematic was the an extremely fragile economic trigger cooperation with Turkey “in a States. An alternative relationship based further cooperation on mutual discrepancy between the proclaimed situation adding to the worries of phased, proportionate and reversible on a strategic partnership is being interests such as trade facilitation, aim of reforming the political and international investors about the manner”: economic cooperation formulated in this process. However, modernisation of the Customs economic situation in the direction of soundness of the management of and talks regarding the current any new relationship between Union, restarting high level dialogue democracy, human rights, rule of law Turkish economy. The closure case problems in the Customs Union Turkey and the EU would definitively meetings, refugee cooperation and good governance and the actual against HDP, the third largest party and starting work on a mandate for be considered as a downgrading and people-to-people contacts. turn of events. in terms of the votes it received in the modernisation of the Customs from the status of candidate and Turkey’s first reaction to the positive Three developments took place the last elections and a member of Union; restarting high level dialogues acceding country. Based on the agenda was lukewarm however, the in Turkey right before the critical the “Millet” coalition was viewed from with Turkey on issues such as public current conditions, a revitalisation of Turkish government took care not to 25-26 March European Council. The Europe as an undemocratic move health, climate, counter-terrorism Turkey-EU relations is urgently needed antagonize the relationship further EU leaders had postponed a lengthier induced by the government not and regional issues; and engaging in for both parties and will entail both by moderating its approach to the debate on Turkey-EU relations to the an act against terrorism initiated by cooperation regarding mobility and de-escalation in the foreign policy Eastern Mediterranean tensions and March Summit. These developments an independent judiciary. Despite people-to-people contacts. domain and building of cooperation improving its bilateral relations with were Turkey’s decision to withdraw these developments which led to The European Council and trust as well as progress in the EU Member States such as Greece from the Istanbul Convention on a questioning of the government’s underlined that if Turkey’s actions in human rights, democracy and rule of and France. While an exchange of fighting violence against women, the determination to revitalize the EU Eastern Mediterranean threatened law situation in Turkey. letters was followed by a phone decision to replace the Central Bank accession perspective, the 25 March 1965 2020

19 65 1 1965 ISSUE: 71 APRIL 2021 9 65 2018

IKV AGENDA “WE RECEIVE THE EUROPEAN COUNCIL CONCLUSIONS WITH CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM”

n 25 March 2021, IKV Commission to resolve the problems However, it was mentioned in on reforms in the field of economy OChairman Ayhan Zeytinoğlu in the Turkey-EU Customs Union the report prepared by Borrell. and politics in Turkey until June will commented on the European and initiating the modernisation The rapid fulfilment of the six pave the way for a revitalisation of Council conclusions under the process and a high level dialogue remaining benchmarks for visa relations with the EU. The European heading “Eastern Mediterranean” including on topics such as climate liberalisation will accelerate the Council requested to advance the regarding relations with Turkey. IKV and public health, progress in process. Cooperation on refugees work for the Eastern Mediterranean Chairman Zeytinoğlu indicated that people-to-people contacts and should be resumed swiftly. In this Conference also proposed by Turkish EU’s willingness to revive relations mobility, and continuation of respect, the European Council President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. with Turkey was positive. Chairman cooperation on refugees. mentions the significance of Moreover, a solution in Cyprus Zeytinoğlu also emphasized It is stated that the European Turkey’s continued cooperation in within the framework of the UN is the importance of advancing Council to be held in June will readmission and control of irregular mentioned and it is stated that the the relations with the EU, which revert to the issue and the migration within the scope of the EU will participate in the upcoming is designing its future around developments concerning the 18 March Turkey-EU Statement. talks in April as an observer and European Green Deal principles, Eastern Mediterranean will However, while emphasizing provide support. Keeping the and stated that the perspective be monitored closely till then. cooperation on refugees, the failure Eastern Mediterranean and Aegean of full membership preserves its Particularly, the fact that the to mention crucial issues included problems in a moderate framework importance; thus, it is crucial for modernisation of the Customs in the 18 March Statement such with such diplomatic initiatives will Turkey not to give up on the reform Union is brought to the agenda is as the revitalisation of accession be beneficial for peace and security process. Chairman Zeytinoğlu However, the realisation of these a positive development. Moreover, negotiations, realisation of visa in the region. Turkey and EU moving continued as follows: recommendations is made initiating a high level dialogue and liberalisation as well as the closer is of utmost importance “We receive the conclusions conditional upon the continuation proposing new topics for discussion resettlement of Syrians from Turkey for post-COVID-19 normalisation, of the EU Summit with cautious of tranquillity in the Eastern such as climate and public health into the EU can be interpreted as economic recovery, increasing optimism. Welcoming the Mediterranean. Stating that will also be beneficial for addressing double standards. The fact that foreign investments and revival of de-escalation in the Eastern cooperation will be progressive, and coordinating the issues on the democracy, human rights and rule trade. We support close coordination Mediterranean warmly, the proportionate and reversible, EU agenda together. Concerning of law are declared as an integral and cooperation and coherent European Council made some attention is drawn to progress in people-to-people contacts and part of Turkey-EU relations is worth progress with Turkey on issues which recommendations to improve the following areas: economic mobility, the concept of visa mentioning particularly for the are high on the EU agenda namely; cooperation with Turkey. cooperation, mandating the liberalisation is not mentioned. candidacy perspective. Focusing the Green Deal and digitalisation.” “TURKEY IS INDISPENSABLE FOR THE EU, JUST AS THE EU IS INDISPENSABLE FOR TURKEY”

n a statement issued ahead of the to issues relating to the Green Deal refugees, starting with the most encouraged and a reference is made I25-26 March European Council and digitalisation. In the meantime, vulnerable groups into Member to visa liberalisation. It is stated that meeting, IKV Chairman Ayhan Turkey should take concrete actions States. But no number is mentioned the Commission is willing to advise Zeytinoğlu underlined Turkey’s goal to activate the Human Rights Action in this regard. On the one hand, the on the benchmarks which Turkey of EU membership and said that Plan and the Economic Reform report mentions modernisation and has not yet fulfilled. It would have Turkey-EU relations should not be Package and take advantage of the expansion of the Turkey-EU Customs been more constructive if emphasis taken out of that context and off positive dynamic created by doing Union as a means of strengthening were put on how fulfilling these the route to accession. Chairman so. Turkey also needs to speed up the economic ties. However, on benchmarks would lead the way to Zeytinoğlu made the following efforts to meet the six remaining the other hand, it is mentioned visa liberalisation. Borrell’s report also remarks: benchmarks for visa liberalisation. that the Council needs to authorise mentions the possibility of phased “The 25-26 March EU Summit Turkey should also, in line with its the Commission to begin the sanctions in case the tensions rise is crucial for the future of Turkey-EU international commitments, initiate negotiations with Turkey. Yet for this in the Eastern Mediterranean. In relations. The discussion on Turkey-EU the approval process for the Paris to happen, a precondition is put this respect, the proposal includes a relations during the December Climate Agreement and cancel forth; that Turkey should resolve the set of phased sanctions: additional Summit had been postponed to its withdrawal from the Istanbul issues damaging trade with the EU. listings of individuals to be targeted March and EU High Representative Convention, the formation of which The fact that no mention has been with sanctions as proposed at the Borrell was tasked with preparing a an approach that aims to reduce Turkey contributed to. made pertaining to transportation December Summit but has not report on the issue. Borrell’s report tensions. If that is not the case, In the report, reference is made quotas and Turkey being left out been implemented, extending the draws attention to the positive the report proposes a number of to positive steps that need to be of the FTAs the EU signs with other scope of sanctions to include legal developments in relation to the phased sanctions. It is very upsetting taken as a continuation of a more parties is a major shortcoming. High persons, limiting the economic de-escalation of tensions in the to see that the sanctions are still on moderate atmosphere in the Eastern level dialogues were suspended by cooperation and operations of the Eastern Mediterranean but states the agenda. Looking back at the Mediterranean and as part of the the EU in 2019. Now it is proposed EIB and other financial institutions, that more time is needed to fully history and comprehensive nature positive agenda proposed after the that high level dialogues should be applying pressure on certain sectors assess the situation and that the EU’s of Turkey-EU relations, the fact is that October and December Summits. relaunched in the areas of economy, of the economy through issuing approach towards Turkey will take the relations should have been at In this regard, it is envisaged that transport, political developments, warnings against tourism and travel better shape after the June Summit. a higher level than they are today. migration management and foreign affairs and security policies. to Turkey and to apply additional Borrell puts forward a roadmap We hope that the EU re-evaluates economic ties are strengthened, High level dialogues on issues of sanctions in the form of import and consisting of two alternative routes. its Turkey policy, taking into high level dialogues launched Green Deal which initiated the export bans of certain products and It is suggested in the report that consideration the accession process. and people-to-people contacts transformation of the EU economy technologies in the energy sector Turkey should pay attention to the As a first step, the modernisation enhanced. With respect to migration are especially crucial as it is very as well as other relevant sectors. We EU’s priorities on the topics of the of the Customs Union needs to management, it is stated that Turkey relevant for Turkey. Finally, under hope that there will not be a need for Eastern Mediterranean and foreign begin shortly. High level dialogues should accept 1,450 returnees from the people-to-people contacts these sanctions and that Turkey-EU policy and reinvigorate relations in and close cooperation should start the Greek islands. In return, the heading, Turkey’s participation in the relations will develop based on a a positive direction by displaying with special attention being paid EU should begin resettling Syrian new generation EU programmes is constructive and win-win formula.”

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19 65 1965 www.ikv.org.tr 19 65 2018 IKV AGENDA TIMELINE MARCH 2021 1 IKV HOSTED A WEBINAR ENTITLED President Erdoğan presented the IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu issued a TH Human Rights Action Plan. 2 statement on the Human Rights “5 YEAR OF THE TURKEY-EU DEAL: Action Plan. NATO Secretary General 3 IKV Secretary General Nas Stoltenberg hailed Turkey’s participated in the webinar on EXPERIENCES AND PREDICTIONS” importance for European “Water Awareness and Efficiency security. 4 in the EU and Turkey”. KV and Research Centre on IAsylum and Migration Academy EU High Representative for 5 (IGAM Academy) jointly organised Foreign Affairs and Security a webinar entitled “5th Year of the Policy Borrell visited Cyprus. Turkey–EU Deal: Experiences and 6 Predictions” on 18 March 2021. IKV Chairman Ayhan Zeytinoğlu Senior Turkish and European 7 IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu released delivered the first opening speech of officials issued statements on a statement on the occasion of the webinar which was moderated the occasion of International International Women’s Day. by IKV Deputy Secretary General M. Women’s Day. 8 Gökhan Kilit and IGAM Academy IKV, TEPAV and IPC issued a joint Coordinator Dr. Nihal Eminoğlu. IKV The 10th anniversary 9 statement calling for Turkey’s Chairman Zeytinoğlu emphasized of the Turkey-EU Civil Society alignment with the Green Deal. that Turkey, hosting over 4 million Dialogue was celebrated. IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu chaired refugees has substantially eased the 10 a session in the “EU-Turkey High Level Business Dialogue”. EU’s burden and that the 18 March talked about the delivery of Turkey’s main expectations from an IKV hosted a webinar on “Gender Turkey-EU Statement included commitments under the Turkey-EU updated Turkey-EU Statement. 11 provisions on revitalisation of Statement and highlighted the need In the panel session, Prof. Equality in the EU Process and the accession process, Customs for rebuilding mutual trust. Howard Duncan from Carleton President Erdoğan unveiled the Feminist Foreign Policy”. Union modernisation and visa 12 Croatian Consul General Zerec and Delivering the keynote address University, Founding Chairman of Economic Reform Package. liberalisation in addition to at the webinar, Turkey’s Deputy the European Stability Initiative Belgian Consul General Dickschen cooperation on migration, which Minister of Foreign Affairs and Gerald Knaus, Secretary General 13 visited IKV. are yet to materialize. Delivering Director for EU Affairs Ambassador of EP EU-Turkey Forum Laura the second opening speech, IGAM Faruk Kaymakcı emphasized that the Batalla Adam, IGAM Academy President Metin Çorabatır discussed 14 vast majority of the provisions in the Vice-President Prof. Kemal Kirişci, Slovakia’s Foreign and European the development of the asylum 18 March Statement were related IGAM Academy President Prof. M. Affairs Minister Korčok visited IKV published a policy brief (in reception system in Turkey after to the fundamental dimensions of Murat Erdoğan and IKV Secretary Turkey. 15 Turkish) on the EU’s new trade the 18 March Statement. Giving the Turkey-EU relations. Stressing the General Assoc. Prof. Çiğdem Nas 62nd round of consultative talks strategy. last opening speech, Head of the importance of Turkey’s EU accession held an in-depth discussion on between Turkey and Greece was Political Affairs Section of the EU 16 perspective, Deputy Foreign Minister the past, present and future of the held in Athens. Delegation to Turkey Eva Horelová Ambassador Kaymakcı outlined Turkey-EU Statement. 17

EU issued a statement on recent IKV organised a webinar entitled developments concerning HDP. 18 “5th Year of the Turkey-EU Deal: IKV CHAIRMAN MET WITH CONSULS President Erdoğan held a video Experiences & Predictions” in cooperation with IGAM Academy. call with Presidents of the 19 GENERAL OF CROATIA, BELGIUM AND THE European Commission and European Council. NETHERLANDS European officials issued 20 statements on Turkey’s withdrawal from the Istanbul n 12 March 2021, the Consul 21 Convention. OGeneral of Croatia in Istanbul Ivana Zerec paid a courtesy visit to Foreign Minister Çavuşoğlu met 22 IKV Chairman Ayhan Zeytinoğlu. with EU High Representative IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu visited During the meeting, the latest Borrell in Brussels. the Consul General of the developments in Turkey-EU relations, Foreign Minister Çavuşoğlu 23 Netherlands Bart van Bolhuis. IKV’s activity areas and possible attended the NATO Foreign cooperation opportunities were Ministers Meeting. 24 IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu issued a discussed. Moreover, the impact of statement ahead of the European the pandemic on economic relations Council meeting. EU leaders discussed relations 25 between countries was assessed and an exchange of views was held with Turkey on the basis of the IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu on the development of economic report by EU High Representative 26 evaluated the outcome of the relations between Turkey and Croatia. Borrell. European Council meeting in a On the same day, the Consul between the institutions and keeping European Council meeting regarding statement. General of Belgium in Istanbul Serge the communication channels open Turkey-EU relations. Stressing the 27 IKV Secretary General Nas Dickschen visited IKV Chairman at all times in order to maintain importance of a multidimensional discussed the European Council Ayhan Zeytinoğlu. The recent the relations active between the relationship between Turkey and the 28 meeting on Deep Dive Politics. developments in Turkey-EU relations institutions. EU, Zeytinoğlu and Bolhuis said that IKV Secretary General Nas and the reform process in the EU On 23 March, IKV Chairman reviving Turkey-EU relations would Issue 25participated • December in the Kanal 2016 Ekonomi3 The EU and UN co-chaired the were discussed during the meeting. Ayhan Zeytinoğlu visited the also be beneficial for the relations 29 Instagram live cast. 5th Brussels Conference on The economic relations between Consul General of the Netherlands between Turkey and the Netherlands. IKV Secretary General Nas spoke at Supporting the Future of Syria Turkey and Belgium, how to improve in Istanbul Bart van Bolhuis. IKV The meeting was also attended by 30 the online seminar on “European and the Region. these relations and the projects that Chairman Zeytinoğlu provided IKV Secretary General Assoc. Prof. Council and Beyond”. can be developed to this end were information about recent activities Çiğdem Nas and Trade Counselor of IKV Secretary General Nas took among the other topics covered. carried out by IKV and expressed his the Dutch Embassy in Ankara Helene 31 part at the webinar hosted by Emphasis was put on cooperation expectations for the 25-26 March Rekkers. Kadir Has University.

ISSUE 71 . April 2021  19 65 1 1965 ISSUE: 71 APRIL 2021 9 65 2018

IKV AGENDA

IKV CHAIRMAN ZEYTİNOĞLU’S 8 MARCH GENDER EQUALITY IN THE EU PROCESS AND FEMINIST INTERNATIONAL WOMEN`S DAY MESSAGE FOREIGN POLICY DISCUSSED n a statement issued on International Women’s Day. Turkey was among the first signatories AT IKV WEBINAR Ithe occasion of 8 March Women, who make up half of of the Istanbul Convention. He International Women’s society, produce much more concluded by saying: Day, IKV Chairman than half when it comes to “As Turkey, we are a candidate Ayhan Zeytinoğlu labour. However, when it country for EU membership and do and underscored the comes to equal pay, equal not accept any alternative other than themes of women’s rights and freedoms, we full membership. The EU is a union rights and gender unfortunately see that the of countries founded on common equality. IKV Chairman balances turn against women. values, the most important of which Zeytinoğlu reminded that Mustafa We observe a very dangerous and are ensuring gender equality and Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the worrying increase in violence against the prohibition of gender-based Republic of Turkey, saw improving the women in recent years. This situation discrimination. The EU has not fully status of women in the society and is unacceptable. Steps should be taken achieved these objectives. However, ensuring their participation in all areas to ensure women’s equal participation ensuring gender equality is at the KV organised a webinar Management Sciences at Okan of life as one of the most important in business, public and political life. forefront in EU’s policy priorities. Last entitled “Gender Equality in University and co-founder priorities and has made a breakthrough All forms of violence against women year, the EU published a gender equality I the EU Process and Feminist of Women in Foreign Policy in women’s rights. Emphasizing that should be punished in the most severe strategy aimed at addressing existing Foreign Policy” on 11 March Initiative Prof. Zeynep Alemdar despite this, there are important way, without any penalty reduction.” inequalities. The COVID-19 pandemic 2021. Delivering the opening talked about the negative problems regarding the situation of Indicating the significance IKV has made women’s situation even speech at the webinar, which impact of the pandemic on women and gender equality, Chairman attributes to positive discrimination more difficult and adversely affected was moderated by IKV Deputy gender equality. Academic Zeytinoğlu made the following remarks: towards women in its recruitment gender equality. As Turkey, we support Secretary General M. Gökhan Assoc. Prof. Sevgi Uçan “8 March is a day when issues of approach and equal representation improving women’s wages and working Kilit, IKV Chairman Ayhan Çubukçu emphasized the women’s rights and gender equality in events, Chairman Zeytinoğlu also conditions, provision of institutional Zeytinoğlu underscored the significance of the Istanbul come to the fore in Turkey, as in the stressed the importance of women’s support in child and elderly care and importance of ensuring gender Convention as a legally binding whole world. First of all, I congratulate rights and gender equality for the EU ensuring women’s equal representation equality and pointed to the EU instrument for all contracting all women and the whole society on membership goal and recalled that in all areas as important objectives.” accession process as a driving states. Head of TED University force in Turkey’s efforts in this Center for Gender Studies field. Prof. Zuhal Yeşilyurt Gündüz IKV SECRETARY GENERAL NAS PARTICIPATED IN ONLINE EVENTS During the panel session, explained key concepts such Sweden’s Consul General as gender stratification and KV Secretary General Assoc. Prof. in Istanbul Peter Ericson human security. Finally, IKV Çiğdem Nas participated in the I provided detailed information Secretary General Assoc. webinar on the Turkey-UK Free Trade on Sweden’s feminist foreign Prof. Çiğdem Nas focused Agreement (FTA) organised by TOBB policy while Dean of the on women’s participation in on 11 March 2021. TOBB President Faculty of Business and labour force and politics. M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu and the British Ambassador to Turkey Sir Dominick Chilcott gave the opening speeches which were followed by a panel where IKV CHAIRMAN ZEYTİNOĞLU bureaucrats from the Ministry of Trade and the British Embassy shared detailed ATTENDED THE TOBB information about the agreement. In her speech, mentioning the basic CHEMICAL INDUSTRY principles of the Turkey-UK FTA, IKV On 16 March, IKV Secretary General and on the Instagram live cast of Kanal Secretary General Nas indicated that Nas took part in the online seminar Ekonomi a day later. On 30 March, Nas COUNCIL MEETING Turkey and the UK are expected to begin organised by IPC on “Turkey-EU Relations discussed the outcome of the European negotiations for a more comprehensive and Green Deal” during which the joint Council meeting at the webinar trade agreement in two years’ time. statement issued by IKV, IPC and TEPAV entitled “European Council and Beyond” During the month, IKV Secretary was discussed. In the joint statement organised by IPC under the “Pandemic General Nas discussed various dated 9 March, the three institutions and Society” webinar series. On 31 dimensions of Turkey-EU relations urged Turkey to align with the Green March, Nas spoke at the webinar on in online events. On 4 March, Nas Deal priorities and proposed a number “Turkey as a Partner and a Challenge for delivered a speech at the webinar on of steps to this end. Furthermore, European Security” hosted by Kadir Has “Water Awareness and Efficiency” jointly Nas discussed the importance of University Center for International and organised by the Kocaeli Chamber of Turkey’s compliance with the green European Studies. Industry, Kocaeli EU Information Center transformation in the programme IKV Secretary General Nas also and Kocaeli Municipality Directorate called “What kind of a world? What kind co-authored a policy brief on Turkey-EU General for Water and Sanitation where of Turkey?” hosted by IPC and broadcast relations ahead of the European Council KV Chairman Ayhan European Green Deal. she focused on water policies in the on Medyascope on 25 March. meeting. In the policy brief titled “Turkey- IZeytinoğlu and IKV IKV Secretary General context of EU’s environmental policies. On 24 March, Nas analysed EU Relations before the March Summit: Secretary General Assoc. Assoc. Prof. Nas gave Participating in the online seminar Turkey-EU relations ahead of European The Way Forward?” jointly published Prof. Çiğdem Nas attended a presentation on the entitled “A Year of the Pandemic: Vaccine, Council meeting on the “Dünya ve by IKV, IPC and TEPAV on 24 March, IKV the TOBB Chemical Industry European Green Deal and Psychology and Governance” hosted Biz” programme presented by Aydın Secretary General Nas, IPC Director Prof. Council meeting on 26 its potential effects on by IPC within the scope of “Pandemic Selcen on Artı TV. On 26 March, Nas Fuat Keyman, IPC Academic Research March 2021. Opening the Turkey. Stating that the and Society” webinar series on 9 was Fulya Şirin Erensoy’s guest in “This Coordinator Prof. Senem Aydın-Düzgit, meeting in his capacity Green Deal will lead to a March, Nas evaluated the steps taken Week in Turkey” where she discussed IPC Senior Researcher Prof. Atila Eralp as TOBB Vice President, significant transformation by the EU since the outbreak of the Turkey-EU relations in light of the and TEPAV EU Studies Centre Director IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu in various sectors including pandemic. Moreover, Nas spoke on the positive steps agreed at the 25-26 Nilgün Arısan-Eralp, stressed the touched upon the current the chemical industry, Nas modernisation of the Turkey-EU Customs March European Council meeting. On importance of reviving Turkey-EU developments in the highlighted the importance Union at the Turkey Chemical Industry 28 March, she evaluated the European relations on the basis of common values chemical industry, the of adapting to this Council held on 12-13 March 2021. Council meeting on Deep Dive Politics and mutual interests. effects of COVID-19 and the transformation.

 ISSUE 71 . April 2021 19 65 1965 www.ikv.org.tr 19 65 2018

TURKEY-EU WATCH

PRESIDENT ERDOĞAN PRESENTED THE IKV CHAIRMAN ZEYTİNOĞLU HUMAN RIGHTS ACTION PLAN AND THE PARTICIPATED IN THE EU-TURKEY HIGH LEVEL ECONOMIC REFORM PACKAGE BUSINESS DIALOGUE While the Human Rights Action Plan aspires to strengthen the understanding of rule of law based on human rights, the Economic Reform Package aims at ensuring sustainable and quality growth.

urkish President Recep structure is the main objective TTayyip Erdoğan unveiled of the reform package. the key points of the Human Under the new Economic Rights Action Plan on 2 Reform Package, all policies March 2021. The action plan, will be implemented with a KV Chairman Ayhan Zeynep Bodur Okyay, Head which is set to be carried transparent and foreseeable IZeytinoğlu participated of Trade Relations with out over a two-year period, governance approach in the “EU-Turkey High the Southern Neighbours, includes ambitious principles which will strengthen Level Business Dialogue Middle East, Turkey, embedded in 9 goals, 50 macroeconomic stability and on EU Green Deal” Russia and Central Asia at objectives and 393 actions. support efficiency-based which was organised by European Commission’s President Erdoğan indicated competitive investments and EUROCHAMBERS within DG Trade, Nele Eichhorn; that the aim of the action plan production. the scope of the Turkey-EU Member of the Executive was to further strengthen The Economic Business Dialogue (TEBD) Board of TÜSİAD, Dr. Fatih the understanding of rule judiciary and strengthening on 12 March 2021. The new Reform Package is based on 10-11 March 2021. Kemal Ebiçlioğlu; Deputy of law based on human the right to a fair trial are package aims to increase on macroeconomic and IKV Chairman Zeytinoğlu Director General of Business rights through regularly some of the main principles investment, production, structural policies focusing chaired the first session Europe, Luisa Santos; reviewing the legislation and foreseen under the new jobs, and exports, raising on public finance, inflation, titled “EU-Turkey Economic Director for Central and implementation in this regard Human Rights Action Plan. Turkey’s growth potential the financial sector, current and Trade Relations and South Eastern Europe in the and taking the necessary President Erdoğan noted that through boosting production. account deficit, and Common Challenges in European Investment Bank, measures. Moreover, President they would focus more on the President Erdoğan employment as part of View of the Green Deal”. Anita Fürstenberg-Lucius; Erdoğan stated that the EU, especially with respect to underscored that the macroeconomic stability. The speakers in the first and Deputy Chairman of ultimate goal of the plan the visa liberalisation dialogue government was determined Measures to encourage session were IKV Vice-Chair TİM, Başaran Bayrak. was a new constitution. and aim to enhance the to defeat the pandemic in investment, strengthen Protecting and strengthening effectiveness of the individual 2021, while preparing to the institutional structure, freedom of expression, application system to the enter a period of quality facilitate domestic trade, association and religion, Constitutional Court. growth in the medium competition policies, and TH legal foreseeability and Following the Human term. Creating sustainable, market surveillance and THE 10 YEAR OF TURKEY-EU transparency, strengthening Rights Action Plan, President strong, and quality growth checks are included in the CIVIL SOCIETY DIALOGUE WAS individual freedoms and Erdoğan presented the that will conform to the reform package as part of security, independence of the Economic Reform Package post-pandemic economic structural policies. CELEBRATED NATO SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG STRESSED TURKEY’S IMPORTANCE FOR EUROPEAN SECURITY

ATO Secretary General Jens Turkey’s vital role in fighting international NStoltenberg, in a lecture he delivered terrorism particularly ISIS. at the College of Europe in Bruges on 4 NATO Secretary General Stoltenberg’s March 2021, underscored the vital role remarks were warmly received by Turkey. non-EU NATO allies including Turkey have President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan thanked been playing in ensuring the security of Stoltenberg for his objective evaluations Europe. Referring to EU’s recent defence on Euro-Atlantic security and defence initiatives, which have gained impetus matters, on social media and expressed following the UK’s decision to leave the Turkey’s determination to continue to fulfil he 10th anniversary for EU Affairs Ambassador EU and Trump’s election as US President, its responsibilities as a NATO ally and serve Tof the “Civil Society Faruk Kaymakcı, Head of and the debate on “strategic autonomy” global peace and stability. Dialogue between Turkey the EU Delegation to Turkey as championed by French President In March, also EU High Representative and the EU Programme”, Ambassador Nikolaus Emmanuel Macron, NATO Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep implemented by Meyer-Landrut, Chair of General Stoltenberg said that while an out to the crucial role and functions Borrell made some observations regarding Turkish Foreign Ministry the Global Community EU that spent more on defence, invested assumed by non-EU allies. In this regard, Turkey in his book titled “European Foreign Directorate for EU Affairs Engagement and Resilience more in capabilities and reduced the Stoltenberg stated that Turkey bordering Policy in Times of COVID-19”. Stressing the as one of the most Fund and former Head fragmentation in the defence industry Syria and Iraq secured the southern importance of maintaining dialogue with established EU grant of the EU Delegation to would be good not only for European flank of the Alliance, while Iceland and Turkey on outstanding issues in the Eastern programmes for the civil Turkey Stefano Manservisi security but also for transatlantic security, Norway acted as the gates opening up Mediterranean, Borrell also indicated that society was celebrated on and TOBB and IKV Brussels the EU was in no position to defend to the Arctic, and in the west, the US, Turkey-EU relations could not be a one- 9 March 2021 with the “10 Representative Haluk Europe on its own. Canada and the UK linked the two sides way street and emphasized that the EU Years of Dialogue” online Nuray participated in the Stressing that the defence of Europe of the Atlantic. Speaking to the press, needed to show Turkey that it would be and live cast event. “Dialogue Square” panel would be unthinkable without the Stoltenberg reiterated Turkey’s importance welcomed as a family member if it met its Deputy Minister of which was moderated by non-EU NATO allies, Stoltenberg pointed for Euro-Atlantic security and hailed part of the deal. Foreign Affairs and Director journalist Mirgün Cabas.

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TURKEY-EU WATCH

INTERNATIONAL REACTIONS TO EU AND UN CO-CHAIRED THE 5TH BRUSSELS CONFERENCE ON SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF TURKEY’S WITHDRAWAL FROM THE SYRIA n 29 and 30 March 2021, the EU ISTANBUL CONVENTION Oand the UN co-hosted the 5th Brussels Conference on Supporting n 20 March 2021, Turkey raised on the other side of the the Future of Syria and the Region. Owithdrew from the Istanbul Atlantic. US President Joe Biden, in At the end of the two-day virtual Convention through a presidential a written statement, emphasized conference, the international decree published on the Official the significance of cooperation for community pledged 6.4 billion Gazette. The Istanbul Convention, ending violence against women dollars in aid and consensus with its full name the Council of and depicted Turkey’s withdrawal was reached on the instalment Europe Convention on Preventing from the Istanbul Convention as a process. Pursuant to this, 4.4 billion and Combating Violence against discouraging step backwards. dollars have been allocated to affected by the crisis. Women and Domestic Violence, is Subsequent to these support humanitarian, resilience Turkey’s Deputy Ministers a human rights treaty which was international reactions, Turkey’s and development activities in of Foreign Affairs Ambassador opened for signature in Istanbul on 11 Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued 2021 within the framework of Sedat Önal and Yavuz Selim Kıran May 2011. Turkey was the first country a statement indicating that some the response to the Syrian crisis. addressed the meeting. Deputy to ratify the Convention which components and practices of The financial aid is intended to Foreign Minister Ambassador entered into force in August 2014. The of the Council of Europe Marija the Istanbul Convention have assist the affected communities Önal highlighted that the Istanbul Convention has been signed Pejčinović Burić, French Foreign resulted in sensitivities among the in meeting their basic and urgent international community has a by 45 countries and the EU, and it was Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and the Turkish society similar to some needs. Furthermore, securing shared responsibility to alleviate ratified by33 countries between 2013 German Foreign Office evaluated other countries in the Council of quality education for children, the suffering of the Syrian people and 2019. It is the first legally binding Turkey’s withdrawal from the Europe which oppose and divert providing livelihood opportunities which requires a concerted and global convention put into practice Convention as a backsliding in from the Istanbul Convention. for refugees and affected groups multidimensional effort that to protect women from violence. women’s rights. In a similar vein, The Ministry avoided possible and fostering public services as well addresses the root causes of the Today, the Istanbul Convention has EU High Representative for Foreign misunderstandings by underlining as economic growth are among the crisis. Meanwhile, Deputy Foreign become more important than ever Affairs and Security Policy Josep Turkey’s determination to enhance objectives of the aid. 2 billion dollars Minister Kıran pointed out that in an environment where all forms of Borrell called on Turkey to return to its efforts in fighting gender-based will be in circulation in 2022 within Turkey has provided 1.1 billion gender-based violence have been on the Convention since the withdrawal violence. Lastly, in the statement it the same targets applicable for dollars in humanitarian aid to the rise. decision could not only endanger was reiterated that women’s rights 2021. The international community’s refugees in northern Syria and Turkey’s withdrawal from the situation of women and girls in would continue to be protected at multi-year undertakings for Syria added that with 4 million forcibly the Istanbul Convention was met Turkey, but also cause the rise of an the highest level by Turkey’s national and neighbouring countries in displaced people 3.7 million of with concern and drew numerous undesirable global movement. Parallel legislation prepared with the the region bear a significance which are Syrians, Turkey is hosting reactions both domestically and concerns over Turkey’s withdrawal approach of zero tolerance towards portraying a joint attempt for the largest refugee population in internationally. Secretary General from the Istanbul Convention were violence against women. sustainable support for the people the world. EU STATEMENT ON THE LATEST TURKISH SCIENTISTS BEHIND THE DEVELOPMENTS CONCERNING PEOPLES’ COVID-19 VACCINE AWARDED DEMOCRATIC PARTY IN TURKEY GERMANY’S HIGHEST ORDER

he EU issued press statements March, criticising the decision to strip the Tfollowing recent developments in parliamentary status of HDP member Ömer Turkey regarding Peoples’ Democratic Faruk Gergerlioğlu and the lawsuit initiated Party (HDP) members of Grand National by the Court of Cassation’s prosecutor n 19 March 2021, the is one of the highest awards in Stressing that the virus Assembly and discussions on the political for the dissolution of the HDP. Borrell and OTurkish-German inventors Germany. During the ceremony, variant which is causing a party’s closure. On 23 February 2021, the Várhelyi stressed that these were reflecting of the COVID-19 vaccine, Dr. German President Steinmeier third wave is more difficult to European External Action Service (EEAS) a regression in fundamental rights in the Özlem Türeci and Prof. Uğur congratulated the two scientists control, Dr. Türeci underlined in expressed its concern over increasing country. Şahin received the Order of for their achievement and her acceptance speech that the pressure on HDP, as its local and national On the same day, the Turkish Foreign Merit from German President emphasized their decisive world will have to join forces politicians are facing terrorism-related Ministry issued a press release to respond Frank-Walter Steinmeier for their contribution in containing the again and not be demoralized charges, while calling on Turkey to to EU’s concerns emphasizing that outstanding performance in pandemic. Moreover, Steinmeier by this third wave, which will implement the ruling by the European the mentioned processes were being developing the first COVID-19 stressed that Uğur Şahin and probably last longer. For his Court of Human Rights on the release of implemented in line with the Constitution vaccine approved in the EU, Özlem Türeci are known as an part, Prof. Şahin expressed that former party co-chair Selahattin Demirtaş. and the Law on Political Parties. Asking at a ceremony also attended impressive couple, researchers, he was grateful to his team Following the latest developments the parties to wait for the decision of by German Chancellor Angela heroes and even saviours in and international partners for regarding Turkey’s second largest the Constitutional Court about the HDP, Merkel. The BioNTech founders the world. He also added that helping the development of opposition party, EU High Representative the Foreign Ministry underlined the were awarded the Knight although people tried to put a the vaccine and highlighted for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy independence of the Turkish judiciary and Commander’s Cross of the tag on their vaccine work, it has that there was still work to be Josep Borrell and Neighbourhood and ensured that final decisions would reflect Federal Order of Merit which no nationality. done. Enlargement Commissioner Olivér Turkey’s commitment to democratic values Várhelyi released a joint statement on 18 and rule of law.

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HIGH-LEVEL EXCHANGES

INTENSE DIPLOMATIC TRAFFIC BETWEEN TURKEY AND EU AHEAD OF CRUCIAL EUROPEAN COUNCIL MEETING

iplomatic traffic between Ankara Emmanuel Macron and emphasized a neighbour and an important Dand Brussels intensified ahead that cooperation between the country” while defending the of the crucial 25-26 March European two countries had “very serious interests of the Member States Council meeting in which EU leaders potential”, both making a reference and the EU. According to Borrell, were set to discuss the future of to counter-terrorism as one area for migration and the renewal of the Turkey-EU relations on the basis of collaboration. 2016 Turkey-EU Statement to stem the report to be submitted by EU For his part in the last irregular flows of migrants to Europe High Representative for Foreign diplomatic interactions, Turkey’s and to improve the conditions of Affairs and Security Policy Josep Foreign Minister Mevlüt Syrian refugees in Turkey will be Borrell as tasked by the European Çavuşoğlu met with the EU High among the topics addressed in Council on 10-11 December 2019. It Representative Borrell on 22 March the report to be submitted to the started off with a video conference meeting, the EU side emphasized the is after peace and cooperation in in Brussels where he was visiting European Council since the deal call between President Recep Tayyip importance of de-escalation and a the Eastern Mediterranean and the to participate in the 23-24 March created tangible results. Erdoğan, European Commission more positive Turkey-EU agenda. Aegean. During the video conference NATO Foreign Ministers Meeting On the same day, Turkey’s Trade President Ursula von der Leyen and Having spoken to the President call with German Chancellor Angela which, among others, has the NATO Minister Ruhsar Pekcan held a video European Council President Charles of Slovenia Borut Pahor on the Merkel on the same day, President 2030 reflection process, aimed conference call with European Michel on 19 March 2021. The follow 10th anniversary of the Strategic Erdoğan praised Merkel for her efforts at strengthening the alliance’s Commissioner for Economy Paolo up to the December European Partnership Agreement between in maintaining the dialogue with political role, on its agenda. While Gentiloni. Turkey-EU economic Council, Turkey-EU relations and the two countries on 20 March and Turkey and the positive outcomes discussing bilateral ties and regional and trade relations, the proposed regional issues including Cyprus expressing his wish to see an even obtained as a result and reiterated issues with Borrell, Foreign Minister positive agenda, the modernisation settlement talks and the situation greater improvement in the relations Turkey’s expectations with respect Çavuşoğlu stressed the need for of the Customs Union, the European in the Eastern Mediterranean were during the Slovenian EU Presidency to Turkey-EU relations and for more cooperation on issues such as Green Deal and cooperation on among the topics discussed during beginning in July, President Erdoğan cooperation, stability and peace in the modernisation of the Customs customs procedures were discussed the call. While President Erdoğan said also had a phone call with Italian the Eastern Mediterranean. Union, visa liberalisation, irregular during the video conference call that the report on Turkey-EU relations Prime Minister Mario Draghi on 23 Earlier in the month, after migration and the fight against and agreement was reached should reflect objective, constructive March. Congratulating Draghi for a positive exchange of letters terrorism, and put the emphasis on on digitalisation of the customs views on the future of Turkey-EU ties becoming Prime Minister, Erdoğan between them to normalise continuing to work on the positive procedures, mutual recognition of and that Turkey expected concrete underscored the importance of full their bitter relations in January, agenda. Borrell said that the EU authorised staff and establishment results for the improvement of the EU membership as Turkey’s strategic President Erdoğan also had a video wants to establish best relations of a closer dialogue between the relations from the European Council goal and stressed the fact that Turkey conference call with French President with Turkey “as a candidate country, parties.

EU HIGH REPRESENTATIVE BORRELL VISITED FOREIGN MINISTER ÇAVUŞOĞLU CYPRUS AHEAD OF CRUCIAL 5+UN MEETING HAD CONTACTS WITH HIS EUROPEAN AND US COUNTERPARTS EU to remain neutral in the talks and thus, the EU’s participation was only acceptable in a bilateral format. In a statement evaluating his exchanges with the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot leaders, EU High Representative Borrell expressed his belief that although the path ahead would not be easy, finding solutions was possible. Indicating that he n 5 March 2021, EU High to the EU and the developments encouraged the parties to seize the ORepresentative for Foreign in the Eastern Mediterranean. opportunity and come to the 5+UN urkey’s Minister of Foreign Çavuşoğlu also met with EU High Affairs and Security Policy Josep According to a written statement meeting in Geneva prepared to TAffairs Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu came Representative for Foreign Affairs Borrell visited Cyprus and held issued following the meeting, compromise, Borrell voiced the EU’s together with his European and US and Security Policy Josep Borrell. contacts on both sides of the TRNC President Tatar urged the firm support for the resumption of counterparts in the second half of During the meeting, both parties Green Line to offer the EU’s support EU to approach the two sides in the UN-led settlement process as March. On 16 March 2021, Foreign stated that they would work ahead of the crucial 5+UN informal the light of the current realities on soon as possible. Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu met together to maintain a positive meeting set to convene on 27-29 the island and underscored that Moreover, in a blog post with the Foreign and European agenda. April in Geneva. In the context of the the sovereign equality and equal published on 7 March, Borrell Affairs Minister of Slovakia Ivan The NATO Foreign Ministers Korčok in Ankara with whom he Meeting provided for the first visit, Borrell held separate meetings international status of the Turkish indicated that despite the rocky path discussed bilateral and Turkey-EU in-person meeting between Foreign with Turkish and Greek Cypriot Cypriots must be respected. Tatar ahead, he was encouraged by the relations. Both parties committed Minister Çavuşoğlu and the new leaders and came together with shared the Turkish Cypriot side’s readiness of both sides to engage to increasing the bilateral trade US Secretary of State Anthony senior UN officials. vision for a settlement based on the with the UN to find a common volume to 5 billion dollars. Blinken, appointed under the Biden The meeting between High sovereign equality of two states with ground on the way forward, and On 22-24 March, Foreign administration. Minister Çavuşoğlu Representative Borrell and President equal international status which expressed the EU’s willingness to Minister Çavuşoğlu travelled had a constructive meeting with of the Turkish Republic of Northern would also be brought to the table assist the process in any way the to Brussels to attend the NATO his US counterpart Blinken in Cyprus (TRNC) Ersin Tatar, which in the upcoming 5+UN meeting in parties or the UN deemed useful. Foreign Ministers Meeting. On the which they discussed all aspects of was held in a constructive and Geneva. Regarding the EU’s request Borrell also highlighted that progress side lines of the meeting, Minister bilateral relations and regional issues sincere atmosphere and lasted for to participate in the 5+UN meeting in the Cyprus settlement process Çavuşoğlu came together with such as the situation in Afghanistan, two hours, focused on the Cyprus as an observer, Tatar indicated that was crucial for broader Turkey-EU his European counterparts from the Eastern Mediterranean, the issue, EU’s policy vis-à-vis the as Greece and the Greek Cypriot relations as well as for stability Montenegro, France, the UK, and Cyprus issue, Syria, Iraq, and Libya, as Turkish Cypriot community, the Administration were EU members, it and prosperity in the Eastern the Netherlands. Foreign Minister well as the fight against terrorism. export of Turkish Cypriot produce would not be realistic to expect the Mediterranean.

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EXPERT VIEW MISJUDGEMENTS OF THE WEST IN CYPRUS HELPED THE TURKS CONSTITUTE A FULLY FLEDGED DEMOCRATIC STATE

Ambassador (R) Şakir FAKILI the Cyprus conflict, which have not brought Annan Plan. This Plan’s vague wording was Greeks. In 1960 Turkish and tackle the issue of the title deeds of lands forward any conclusions for the last fifty called “constructive ambiguity”, a peculiar took part as equal founding partners in left reciprocally in Turkey and Syria. Free years, the said powers obliged the Turkish invention of the British diplomacy. Moreover, the formation of the sui generis Republic of circulation of people is an issue regulated side to join the talks as “The Turkish Cypriot the British enviously kept for themselves the Cyprus, whose independence was secured according to the visa regimes of countries. As Community”, while allowing the Greek Akrotiri and Dhekhelia bases, which they by three guarantor powers (Turkey, Greece for the membership of the TRNC to the EU, Cypriot side to take part as the internationally labelled as the “Sovereign Areas” and tried and Britain). subsequently the rational solution will be joining the Union ith the London and Zurich recognized legitimate representative of the to cautiously keep these regions away from constituted their own autonomous simultaneously with Turkey, since any other Agreements a “functional island. Hence, from the very beginning, they all settlement plans. They are still quite keen administrations following the attacks that formula means the assimilation of the Turkish Wfederation” was founded in chose to look over the unequal treatment on not transferring them to anyone. While left them out of the state in 1963 and Cypriots within the EU and Turkey losing her Cyprus in 1960 between the Turkish and which provided the Greek Cypriot side an emphatically using the word “sovereign” for proclaimed the Turkish Republic of Northern rights in Cyprus. It is important to remember Greek Cypriots. Despite the fact that unfair backing and comfort. Of course, this the bases, the British authorities refrained Cyprus (TRNC) in 1983. The TRNC has all the the words of the late founding President of this new state was not bizonal, it had support in effect made the West helpers from using this term for none of the prerequisites a modern state should possess. the TRNC, Rauf Denktaş, who said “Without balanced constitutional powers between of the Greek Cypriots in their ambition to administrations established by the Turkish It is perhaps the only country in the world Turkey I wouldn’t even go to heaven.” the two peoples living on the island. Both become the master of the whole island. Cypriots after 1963, when they were left out which, although greatly suffering embargoes Regarding the continuity of the presence of motherlands, Turkey and Greece, as well After so much support lent to them, the of the state apparatus in 1963. The British and acts of isolation, attributes great value the Turkish army, a joint defence cooperation as Britain, the former colonial power that Greek Cypriots do not see any more a need intentions did not change after Brexit either. to human rights and basic freedoms and agreement might be enacted. owned two bases on the island, became to reach a mutually agreeable settlement. It would not as well be so hard to guess that implements an exemplary democracy. It is the guarantors of the new state. The Greek Their one and only aim now remains to keep Britain might not be helpful to any attempts diplomatically recognized by the Republic In 1997 Ecevit, also a Well Known Expert Cypriot side was not happy with this new the negotiation desk intact, free of any risk to increase the influence of the EU in Cyprus. of Turkey, a significant power of the Eastern on Cyprus, Had the Wisdom to See the state of affairs and started immediately to of being overturned. Therefore, the idea The continuation of the present state of Mediterranean and the region. Situation Today work with all its might to turn this new state of federation has become a Greek Cypriot affairs in the island is for the British lesser of It is not so hard to understand that Bülent Ecevit, the late Turkish into a Greek Cypriot entity, drive the Turks out fantasy in Cyprus, which could as well be two evils. the intention of the Greek Cypriot side is to statesman who most courageously took of the island and unite Cyprus with Greece. labelled as a “dogma”. make the Turkish side “beggar for a solution”, all the important decisions and diplomatic What the whole world witnessed thereafter Federation Now Becomes a Greek fastened to the process of intercommunal initiatives during the intervention of Turkey is well known: Organized Greek Cypriot Simply, Who is the West ? Cypriot Plot talks, left with no other options. Nevertheless, in Cyprus in 1974, had made a momentous militant gangs waged a ruthless massacre We normally identify the West with Normally, in order to have a viable the situation is quite the other way around. speech at the Turkish Grand National called “Bloody Christmas” against the Turkish enlightenment, science and reason, though federation, experts say it is essential for the There exist in effect in Cyprus two different Assembly on 21 January 1997 that touched people starting on 21 . for the rest of the world it also means a long parties to have mutual trust, respect and territories, two different states, two different upon vital issues on Cyprus and still carries Hundreds of Turks were murdered in cold history of colonialism, as well as orientalism. dependence, as well as strong common democracies, two different nations and important messages for today. blood, thousands were forced to flee, 105 Let us take a short look at history. In interests and a culture of sharing things two different cultures, each exercising full In his speech, Ecevit said that it was Turkish villages were evacuated. Until 1974 1915 Britain, which had taken Cyprus from in critical matters. Do these qualities exist sovereignty at its own region. On the island, understood clearly that the Greek Cypriot the had to survive in an area the Ottomans back in 1878, offered the in Cyprus? As said before, Greek Cypriot the plain and time-tested reality which side did not want to share powers in a less than 5% of the territory of Cyprus. island to King Constantine of Greece as an atrocities committed between 1963 and1974 should not be expected to change easily federation, therefore it was time Turkey must What was the reaction of the Western inducement to enter the First World War. have neither been brought into daylight, in close future is that these two states live ask friendly nations to “acknowledge” the world while all such developments were Towards the end of the War, the victorious nor the criminals punished. There still exists and will continue to live side by side. Taking TRNC. He advised that through an autonomy happening? The West disappointed all by powers, i.e. the USA, Great Britain and France a Greek Cypriot entity from which the Turks all these facts into consideration, Turkey agreement with the Turkish Cypriots, Turkey’s only watching the genocidal acts in which were unanimously convinced that “The were left out by force of arms and which and the Turkish Cypriot side, frustrated by support should be arranged in foreign affairs the mainland Greek army officials also barbarous Turkish race should be cleared the international community sees no the endless talks on federation, have put and defence matters. He emphasized that took part. The perpetrators of this savage out of Europe.” Discussion on the future of trouble in continuing to recognize as the forward the formula of “two state” solution, the TRNC is a significant security assurance criminal campaign have so far neither Turks was therefore a main topic at the Paris only representative of the whole island. The which means that the existing peace and for Turkey just like Turkey being a security been brought into any court nor to any Conference which convened in January 1919. confidence building measures proposed stability, successfully maintained in Cyprus assurance for the TRNC. He added that international tribune. Not even an official The well-known Grecophiles and proponents so far by the Turkish side and its good will by the Turkish army since 1974, depends the security of the Mersin and Iskenderun voice was heard in the West calling for a fair of Greek claims, Lloyd George and Lord steps like opening the border gates with the on the separation of two peoples and their sea ports of Turkey, as well as the region’s trial. The Turks were even asked to establish Curzon, who allowed Greece to invade Izmir South have not been found satisfactory by countries. Defenders of federation oppose oil pipelines or any future gas and oil partnership with the people who allowed the in May 1919, proposed at the Conference the other side. It should also not be forgotten this idea by claiming that two states cannot pipelines to be constructed in the Eastern perpetrators walk freely among themselves. to drive the Turks out of Istanbul, move the that 75% of the Greek Cypriot side voted no exist in a small island. This is not true, because Mediterranean area all depend on such The Western world also connived when Turkish capital to Bursa, leave the Sultan as to the Annan Plan, which envisaged a model there are divided islands in other parts of assurances, therefore Turkish troops must the Turks were being forcefully thrown out Caliph in Istanbul under a Vatican-style status of federation. the world like Timor or Hispaniola. Moreover, remain in forever. at gun point from all government organs, and, just like Izmir, hand over Istanbul to the With regard to the discussions on one should then question why we have two which left them literally without a state and Greeks. Clemenceau of France also supported federation, the former UN Secretary General British bases which total 254 km2 in an island Conclusion converted the Republic of Cyprus of 1960 the idea of taking Istanbul from the Turks and Kofi Annan made this realistic diagnosis at his which is too tiny to divide. If two different It is believed that the adoption of into a Greek-only administration. Although leaving them outside of Europe (From Paris report dated 28 May 2004 on the situation administrations have managed perfectly well the two state model in Cyprus by Turkey fully aware of what was happening in the to Sėvres, 1974, Paul c. Helmreich, Ohio State in the island: “The Greek Cypriots do not to live together for 48 years without having and the TRNC is a significant step, taken at island, those countries, who kept their eyes University Press). want to share authority or prosperity with any serious conflict, uniting them by a push the right moment. It is also relevant in the closed, formulated and endorsed this fait This pro-Greek British mentality was the the Turkish Cypriots at an equal condition/ from outside would beyond any doubt be a sense that it is necessitated by the national accompli at the UN on 4 March 1964 with the same during the Bloody Christmas events in status.” No other statement could explain futile effort, if not a bad intention. interests of both countries. It is presumed notorious Security Council resolution no. 186, Cyprus. Britain did not move a finger to bring so unquestionably the plain truth that that only by insisting on this certain model which allowed the newly formed UN Peace the perpetrators to justice. On the contrary, federation is not the right thing for the island. In Cyprus the Relationship Between the would it be possible to avert the initiatives Force to function under the suzerainty of the it continued to favour and act together with Federation as a model has now become Two States Will Be Like That of Any Two of the Greek Cypriot side backed by the Greek Cypriot Administration. In addition to the emerging Greek Cypriot entity as though the name of the status quo in which the Turks States EU, USA and Britain to create a Greek such misjudgements, the West left Turkey to nothing had happened. As soon as the Greek are being isolated and forced to live under Bilateral relations among neighbouring dominated entity. act alone during the Sampson coup attempt Cypriot attacks had started, Britain, not falling embargoes. It has virtually turned into an states are normally organized according Past experiences have amply proven perpetrated by the Greek Cypriots in 1974 short of Makarios, who was already doing instrument of letting the unfair circumstances to international law. The TRNC and the that other ideas, mainly the insistence on aimed to annex the island to Greece. Thus, his part to wipe the Turks off the island, in favour of the Greeks last forever, while Greek Cypriot Administration could as well a federal solution that are expected to be Turkey had to realize the intervention of came up with a proposal to transfer the keeping the Turks chained to the negotiation arrange their relationship on the principles put forward during the upcoming talks in 20 July 1974 alone. Finally, those Western to the Rhodes island at table. Federation has obviously turned into of non-interference in internal affairs, Geneva are openly aimed at reducing the countries, though seeing quite openly that the Aegean and to hand over that island to a sinister game used by the Hellenistic rulers mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial Turkish Cypriots into a minority under a the Republic of Cyprus had now turned into Turkey (The Destruction of A Republic and its of Greece and the Greek Cypriot side along integrity. What, then, will happen to the Greek Cypriot state. Turkish Cypriot people a Greek Cypriot entity and that were perfectly Aftermath, Salahi S. Sonyel, 2003). Obviously, with the philhellenistic states tied to them issues like property, territory, free circulation do not want to live again the sorrows aware that what is being done was flagrantly the British, who were in early century with adoration, with the aim of cornering of people or EU membership, which have and the savagery they had after 1963 and violating the provisions of the London and readying themselves to offer Izmir and the Turkish Cypriots and Turkey, along with a taken years of lengthy discussions at the do not want to be migrants for a third Zurich Agreements, accepted as full member Istanbul to the Greek, also considered Cyprus strong desire to drive the Turkish army out of negotiation table? These matters will have time at their own country. Perpetrators to the EU a state which was still party to in their hearts and minds as a gift suitable to the island by destroying the Guaranteeship to be seen as the new agenda items that of the Bloody Christmas and the murders an international conflict and “did not have be given readily to the aggressor in the 1960s. system, which is definitely the last sanctuary could be solved only if there is a will between committed before 1974 still await to be full sovereignty over its territory”. Thus, the Again, it was the British who actively of the island Turks. Therefore, it has now the two sovereign states of Cyprus. The brought to justice and account. The UN West has deliberately enhanced the Greek took part in drafting the UN Security Council become crystal clear that the Greek side will issue of territory, for instance, will turn into Security Council resolution no. 186, which presence in the EU from one into two states. resolution 186 that poured oil into the Cyprus never say yes to any agreement before they a bilateral matter consisting only of border has made a tremendous unjustice to the While engaged with all these critical fire. This very resolution later in 2004 was have a “settlement model” which would let adjustments. The border will not change as Turks by presenting the Greek Cypriots as attempts and decisions, the West has totally taken as a pretext when the Greek Cypriots them seize the whole island. long as the sides do not agree. The issue of the sole representative of the island has not ignored the injustices and the desperate were being admitted unlawfully as a full property, by taking into account the Turkish yet been corrected. situation of isolation of the Turkish Cypriots. member to the EU. During the same year, the Turkish Cypriots Have a State of Their properties left in the South, may be taken There remains no other option in This was not the final unfortunate step of the British were also a full participant in outlining Own up by a committee like the “Joint Property Cyprus other than making the Turkish West; all through the talks intended to solve and designing the eleven-thousand-page Cyprus was never ruled in history by the Commission” that in the past was formed to Cypriot state live.

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 ISSUE 71 . April 2021