Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission

24.4.2020

As highlighted by the Council on numerous occasions, and stemming from obligations under the Negotiating Framework, Turkey is expected to unequivocally commit to good neighbourly relations, international agreements and to the peaceful settlement of disputes. Turkey must avoid threats and actions that damage good neighbourly relations.

On 18 June 2019, the Council noted that Turkey continued to move further away from the EU. Turkey’s accession negotiations have therefore effectively come to a standstill and no further chapters can be considered for opening or closing.

The Council reaffirmed that Turkey remains a candidate country and key partner in many areas. It further underlined that it remains committed to maintaining an open and frank dialogue, to addressing common challenges and to cooperating in essential areas of joint interest[1].

• [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2019/06/18/council-conclusions-on-enlargement-and-stabilisation-and-association-process/