EU Members Clash Over Türkiye Language in Enlargement Conclusions

Diplomatic Row Over Türkiye's EU Assessment

A significant diplomatic disagreement has emerged within the European Union regarding the language used to describe Türkiye in the bloc's annual enlargement conclusions. The dispute pits Germany against the Greek Cypriot administration, with both sides holding divergent views on Ankara's recent actions and its path toward EU integration. The draft text, circulated by Denmark, the current EU presidency, is awaiting approval by member states, with the final conclusions anticipated on December 16.

Germany Advocates for Positive Recognition

Germany has reportedly sought to include more positive references to Türkiye in the draft document. During recent meetings of the EU Committee of Permanent Representatives (COREPER), German representatives highlighted Ankara's 'cessation of drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean' as a constructive step warranting recognition. This position received support from Hungary. Germany's stance reflects a desire to acknowledge any positive developments in Türkiye's conduct, potentially aiming to foster a more cooperative relationship. Historically, Germany's position on Türkiye's EU accession has varied, influenced by domestic dynamics and broader geopolitical considerations.

Greek Cypriot Administration Demands Harder Stance

In contrast, the Greek Cypriot administration has vehemently opposed Germany's proposals, pushing for a significantly harder stance against Türkiye. They argue that Türkiye continues to 'violate its airspace and pose threats' to both Greece and the Greek Cypriot side. The Greek Cypriot administration has warned that it would refuse to endorse the final document if Germany's amendments are adopted, a move that would escalate the disagreement to a higher political level. This firm position is rooted in long-standing tensions, particularly concerning the Cyprus issue, which remains a significant impediment to EU-Türkiye relations.

Broader Implications and the Cyprus Issue

The disagreement extends to the specific wording concerning the Cyprus issue within the draft conclusions. The Greek Cypriot administration expressed dissatisfaction with the existing language and demanded changes, but Germany reportedly rejected any alterations to this section. The EU's accession negotiations with Türkiye, which began in 2005, have been at a standstill since 2018 due to concerns over democratic backsliding and rule of law. The European Commission's 2025 Enlargement Package reaffirmed Türkiye's candidate status but also called for closer alignment with EU democratic standards. Türkiye, for its part, has often criticized the EU's reports as biased, particularly regarding the Cyprus issue, and its Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has accused the Greek Cypriot administration of obstructing Türkiye-EU relations.