The EP’s decision for a temporary freeze in accession talks of Turkey is a sad event. This temporary resolution was based on deteriorating human rights and democratic standards, talks about readopting the death penalty and hints about the Lozan treaty. It should be pointed out that the EP has not asked the European Commission and EU member states to approve and follow this decision. Though the vote is largely symbolic it demonstrates a slide in the relations with the EU. Public opinion in the EU, as reflected in the media and in various meetings which are being held, seem to share the EP’s views about Turkey.
In these difficult times for Turkey the support of the EU is of great importance. All channels of communication should be kept open. Continuation of accession talks and the opening of chapters 23 and 24 of the acquis are of utmost importance
