Turkey's European Perspective: The German View, Fall 2004

The author argues that the German Government has given its unrelenting support for accession negotiations if Turkey meets the Copenhagen political criteria. According to the author both Turkey and the EU are already reaping the benefits of Turkey’s EU perspective. He cites three reasons as to why he believes it to be in the political interest of the EU member states, especially Germany, to continue this process: Firstly, because prospective membership has acted as a catalyst, causing Turkey to embark upon far-reaching constitutional and legislative reforms in a very short period. Secondly, because Turkey is of strategic importance to Europe’s security given the paradigm shift in world politics. Thirdly, because Turkey is already an important economic partner for Germany and other member states and will even gain in importance once accession negotiations have begun. The author elaborates on the three reasons and concludes by stating that Turkey’s fulfilment of the reform goals should be met by the fulfilment of the EU’s pledges...Please click here to read the text in full.