The Ankara Agreement and Its Impact on EU-Turkey Relations
The Ankara Agreement, also known as the Association Agreement between Turkey and the European Economic Community (EEC), was signed in 1963 and came into effect in 1964. The agreement was designed to pave the way for Turkey`s eventual accession to the EEC, which later evolved into the European Union (EU).
The Ankara Agreement was a landmark agreement for Turkey, as it marked the beginning of a formal relationship with Europe. The agreement aimed to promote economic cooperation and trade between Turkey and the EU, and to facilitate the free movement of workers and capital between the two parties.
Under the Ankara Agreement, Turkey agreed to align its economic policies with those of the EEC, and to implement a series of economic reforms to create a more open and market-oriented economy. In return, the EEC agreed to provide Turkey with financial assistance and to negotiate a series of preferential trade agreements.
The Ankara Agreement was significant because it marked the beginning of a long and complex relationship between Turkey and the EU. Despite the initial optimism surrounding the agreement, Turkey`s accession to the EU has been postponed on multiple occasions, and the relationship between the two parties has been marked by tensions and disagreements.
One of the major challenges facing Turkey`s accession to the EU is the issue of human rights. Turkey has been criticized for its record on civil liberties and freedom of the press, and these concerns have been a major stumbling block in the accession process.
Another issue has been Turkey`s relationship with the EU`s member states. Some EU member states, such as Cyprus and Greece, have been wary of Turkey`s accession, citing historical grievances and territorial disputes.
Despite these challenges, the Ankara Agreement remains an important milestone in the relationship between Turkey and the EU. The agreement paved the way for increased economic cooperation and trade, and helped to create a more open and market-oriented economy in Turkey.
However, the relationship between Turkey and the EU remains complex and fraught with challenges. As Turkey continues to seek accession to the EU, it will need to address issues such as human rights and relations with member states to make progress towards its goal.
Overall, the Ankara Agreement remains an important symbol of the cooperation and partnership between Turkey and the EU, and highlights the potential for economic and political cooperation between the two parties.