EP resolution on Turkey's operations in northeastern Syria

The European Parliament, currently in plenary sitting in Strasbourg, is expected to adopt, on Thursday, a resolution on Turkey's military operations in northeastern Syria, following freezing, on Wednesday, funds allocated to Ankara because of the offensive against Syrian Kurds.

Radio Romania Special Envoy to Strasbourg, Cristian Matei: Wednesday plenary Agenda was dominated by debates on consequences of the Turkish military intervention in northeastern Syria, which Members of the European Parliament (MEP) criticized in the harshest terms, especially since Turkey is a country benefiting from a special status in relations with the European Union, being a candidate for accession, with all the advantages arising from this position, including those of a financial nature.

Criticism has also been directed towards management of the European institutions, accused of being too soft and not responding effectively and in the shortest time possible.

MEP called for suspension of accession negotiations with Turkey, for economic measures that do not affect the population, for suspension of customs union as a last resort, as well as for sanctions on Turkish government officials and a complete arms embargo.

As a first sanction, MEP adopted yesterday an amendment to the EU's draft budget for 2020, stating that all funds for Turkey will be frozen, except for those that will be distributed through United Nations humanitarian agencies.

Source:RRA.Translated by Miruna Matei