EC/Turkey relations: implementation of measures to promote economic and social development

The committee adopted the report (first reading, codecision procedure) by Philippe MORILLON (EPP/ED, F) amending the Commission proposal for a regulation on measures to promote economic and social development in Turkey.The amendments stated that the Luxembourg Council had confirmed Turkey's eligibility for accession on the basis of the criteria applicable to all applicant states and stressed the importance of human rights, the promotion of democratic practices and the involvement of civil society in this process. The report called on the Commission, before implementing the actions provided for in the regulation, to draw up a list of priorities and refer its indicative programme to the bodies set up by the EU-Turkey association agreement (in particular the joint parliamentary committee). It also said that where there were obstacles to the implementation of projects, operations and measures, especially in the areas of democracy, human rights and the protection of minorities, the Council, acting by a qualified majority on a proposal from the Commission or Parliament, may decide to suspend all cooperation under the regulation. The committee underlined the need to assist Turkey in its efforts to achieve political, economic and social development. It also believed that projects should be undertaken to boost respect for minorities and the protection and recognition of their cultural identities as well as to underpin efforts to abolish the death penalty. In addition, it called for social dialogue within Turkey and between Turkey and the European Union.