EU warns Turkey visa-free deal could collapse
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 12 May 2016 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, EU warns Turkey visa-free deal could collapse, 12 May 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/576900f329.html [accessed 22 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
May 12, 2016
The European Union has warned Turkey that a deal to allow Turks visa-free travel within the bloc will collapse if Ankara does not fulfill its commitments.
European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said changes to Turkey's laws on terrorism were among a number of conditions that needed to be met for visa liberalization.
"We consider that it is important for these conditions to be fulfilled. Otherwise, this deal between the EU and Turkey will not happen," Juncker said on May 12.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has refused to meet the EU's conditions, and has accused the bloc of "hypocrisy."
The EU and rights groups have accused Ankara of using its broad anti-terror legislation to intimidate journalists and stifle dissent.
The visa-free travel issue is part of a Turkey-EU deal aimed at easing Europe's migration crisis.
Based on reporting by AP and AFP
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
