Nieuw momentum in relatie EU-Turkije (en)
Irish Presidency hopes to open new chapter in accession talks next month
The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore T.D. today represented the EU at the 51st EU-Turkey Association Council, which was chaired on the Turkish side by Foreign Minister Davutoglu. Mr Štefan Füle, Commissioner responsible for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy, represented the European Commission.
The Council was held in a very positive atmosphere and focused on a review of progress on Turkey’s accession process. As part of an effort to rebuild momentum in the relationship the Irish Presidency hopes to open the first Chapter under the process in three years next month.
Commenting at the Council, the Tánaiste said:
“I am proud to have the opportunity to lead the EU delegation at this meeting as I strongly believe in the need to further strengthen the relationship between Turkey and the EU. Turkey is a key international partner whose importance and active involvement in its wider neighbourhood is fully recognised by the EU. It is very much in the interest of both the EU and Turkey that it continues to develop and advance along its accession path towards the EU.”
For further details on the EU-Turkey Association Council meeting please see
http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_Data/docs/pressdata/EN/foraff/137295.pdf