The Tigris valley

29.8.2013

Question for written answer P-009711-13
to the Commission
Rule 117
Mikael Gustafsson (GUE/NGL)

The cradle of our civilisation, the Tigris valley, is at risk of being permanently inundated. The Turkish State is persisting with its plans to carry out one of the largest and most damaging dam projects in the world in the region that used to be Mesopotamia. The town of Hasankeyf and 10 000 year old remains will be submerged if the dam is built. The environmental impact will be large-scale and serious. 70 000 people, mainly Kurds, will be driven away from their homes.

The project is contrary to international law and has been condemned by the World Bank. Previously, European banks and undertakings, including the Swedish-based Skanska, have withdrawn from the dam project because it violates so many international conventions.

I consider that the EU should make very forceful representations to the Turkish Government to stop this crazy project. The EU ought to demand that the building of the dam should cease as one of its conditions for Turkey’s membership of the EU.

What has the Commission done in this regard so far?

What measures will the Commission take if Turkey continues with the dam project?

Does the Commission consider that halting the building of the dam should be added to the conditions for Turkey's accession to the EU?

OJ C 179, 12/06/2014