Turkey's Potential European Union Membership

Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues Co-Chair Joseph Knollenberg (R-MI) issued a statement for the House of Representatives record calling on Turkey to demonstrate a willingness to implement changes in its policy, specifically improving its relations with Armenia. In his statement, Knollenberg urged Turkey to honor its commitments, noting that the European Union (EU) has repeatedly asked Turkey to remove its blockade of Armenia, as well as pushed for normalization between the countries.

Turkey, however, continues to ignore these requests by the EU. Representative Joseph Knollenberg's (R-MI) said in part:

"I rise today to encourage Turkey to honor their commitments and implement important economic, regional, and political advancements in order to gain membership into the European Union (EU).

It is a well-known fact that the regional policies of Turkey causes strain in the South Caucasus region and unfairly harms the welfare of their neighbor country, Armenia. The European Union has repeatedly called for the Turkish Blockade of Armenia to cease as well as normalization of relations between the countries. These two pre-conditions to entering the EU have been blatantly ignored by Turkey. The blockade, now in its thirteenth year, is the only blockade of a fellow Council of Europe state, and is simply unacceptable. I implore the EU to stand firm in their recommendations to Turkey in order to ensure these unfair economic practices are eliminated.

Armenia is a friend of the United States; they are a friend to many countries throughout the world. Yet, Turkey refuses to see the good Armenia brings to the South Caucasus region. This refusal has lead to fierce tension within the region, as well as unjust economic outcomes that only harm Armenia. Before Turkey can become a member of the European Union, they must first acknowledge their mistakes, foster cooperation in the South Caucasus region, and respect their neighbor, Armenia."

Mr. Knollenberg called on the European Parliament to consider the ramifications of Turkey's actions before granting them membership to the EU. "The purpose of the EU is to create cooperation between nations with similar interests. Turkey, with a history of bullying nations does not belong in this membership until they change their ways," he said.

By Armenian Public Radio