EU Parliament Threatens Turkey's EU Membership if 'Current Negative Trend' Continues

LOCAL NEWS

• EU Parliament calls for suspension of Turkey's membership talks if 'current negative trend' regarding human rights, democracy Rule of Law & foreign policy continues.
  • Text was adopted with 480 votes in favour, 64 against & 150 abstentions. MPs said they were alarmed by the authoritarian interpretation of the presidential system.
  • Rapporteur says this report was likely "the toughest yet in its criticism of Turkey." Turkish FM denied claims, calling for constructive efforts to show how relations can be improved
• Medical experts warn of a fourth wave of covid infections, counter to Erdogan's remarks that the virus is under control ahead of prime tourist season.
  • Experts warn that at least 50% of the population needs to be vaccinated before the situation can be deemed under control and if measures are fully eased in June – infections will reach 60k/day again by July unless vaccination speed increases
• Interior Minister Soylu once again accused the US of trying to overthrow Erdogan's govt in 2016. Saying he rejected recent meeting requests from the US Ambassador in Ankara. "I will give an appointment when the US begins respecting Turkey
• Cavusoglu to address UN General Assembly today RE Israel-Palestine crisis. Turkey has recently intensified its diplomatic initiatives to counter Israeli aggression.
  • Says the current position on Israel is "weak" with countries closing their eyes to war crimes
• EU Parliament calls on EU to add Grey Wolves to terrorist list and launch investigation into the MHP-linked group