THE 51ST ANNIVERSARY OF TURKEY'S APPLICATION FOR ASSOCIATION WITH THE EEC

Publishing a written message regarding the 51st anniversary of Turkey's application for association with the European Economic Community (EEC), Minister for EU Affairs and Chief Negotiator Egemen Bagis said that application was one of the largest modernization acts of Turkey and indicated that 31 June 1959 was the realization of the objective, determined by Ataturk, to reach the levels of contemporary civilizations.

Stating that the staff who made up one of the most important milestones of the history of democracy process by ensuring transition to a multi-party system in Turkey had showed its determination in applying for EEC and had urged Turkey to a point of no return for modernization, democratization and development, Bagis said: "Even though this process beginning on 31 July 1959 has been long and sometimes interrupted for various reasons such as military coups, significant steps have been taken for the past 51 years". Bagis reminded that Ankara Agreement had been signed in 1963, Additional Protocol had become valid in 1973, Turkey had applied for full membership in 1987, Customs Union had been realized in 1995, Turkey had gained a candidate status in 1999 and formal negotiations with the EU had begun in 2005.

Saying: "Present situation is of prime importance. Today, we are at the final but the most significant point of becoming an EU member.", Bagis remarked that the reforms carried out in the leadership of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the efforts made for democratization had the largest share in that process.

Bagis touched upon the following in his message:

"The constitutional amendments we made in this respect are relatively important. We have the chance to amend the constitution of 12 September 1980, which is one of the biggest obstacles we face today in this process beginning 51 years ago, and thus taking one more important step in the EU membership. It is certain that our people have efficient roles in this period. I believe that Turkish people will support the constitutional amendment package in the referendum which is of prime importance in respect of Turkey's becoming democratic and civilized and in respect of the EU process, as well."

Minister for EU Affairs and Chief Negotiator Egemen Bagis stated that he felt great gratitude and respect for all the leaders who had contributed to this process, in particular to Prime Minister Adnan Menderes, starting the EU period on 31 June 1959 and to the Minister of Foreign Affairs Rustu Zorlu.

Source: AA