Speaking after participating in an EP-Turkey Joint meeting (JPC) in Ankara with Turkish parliamentarians today, ALDE representatives called for a deeper engagement between the European Parliament and Turkey's Grand National Assembly at this critical juncture in Turkey's accession negotiations. ALDE MEPs pointed in particular to the need for greater reconciliation efforts on the island of Cyprus between the two sides.

Andrew Duff (UK, Lib Dem) underlined that he was "very concerned at emerging reports of the participation of some senior military officers in preparations for another coup d'état. The Turkish military must cooperate with civilian authorities in the Ergenekon case," he said *.  Duff also urged Turkey to do more to help on-going talks towards resolving the Cyprus issue.

Sophia In't Veld (D66, Netherlands) also on the JPC delegation meanwhile held separate meetings with Turkey's LGBT community. "I am a firm supporter of Turkey's EU aspirations," she said, "but I will continue to demand that Turkish authorities protect and respect fundamental and democratic rights of assembly and association."

"Persons of the LGBT community, especially transsexuals, are far too often the subject of horrendous discrimination and violence. That must end. However I am pleased and impressed to see the emergence of a strong civil society and NGOs."

Metin Kazak (Bulgaria, Rights and Freedoms) stressed Turkey's role as a bridge between East and West and the need to secure full respect and integration of all minority groups. "Internal reforms in Turkey must continue and are in Turkey's own interest in the continued democratization of the institutions. They are also crucial for Turkey's internal cohesion and stability that should be supported by all sections of Turkish society."

Finally, Anneli Jaatteenmaki (Finnish Centre Party) pointed to the need to maintain continued vigilance on human rights in particular on the freedom of religion and was especially concerned by the situation of the Christian minority.


* The Ergenekon case involves organised attempts to discredit the ruling AKP Party.