Turkey blasts Austrian call to halt Ankara's EU talks

Austria's unfortunate, short-sighted position shows a movement based on discrimination, says Turkish Foreign Ministry

By Yusuf Hatip

ANKARA (AA) – Ankara on Sunday criticized a call by Austria’s new government for a halt to Turkey’s EU accession negotiations, saying it shows a discriminatory attitude that ignores Turkey’s rights.

“This unfortunate and short-sighted statement in Austria’s new government program unfortunately confirms our concerns about a political movement based on discrimination,” said a Foreign Ministry statement.

The Austrian statement is an unfriendly and dishonest attempt to avoid obligations arising out of agreements between the EU and Turkey, the ministry added, also blasting Austria saying it would seek for allies to support ending Turkey’s accession talks.

This move “ignoring our country’s legitimate rights” also “flouts political and diplomatic morals,” said the ministry.

Austria’s move “tests the boundaries of Turkey’s friendship” and, if put into practice, will lead to a decisive response, the ministry said.

On Friday Austria’s center-right OVP (People's Party) reached a deal with the far-right FPO (Freedom Party) to form a coalition government, after eight weeks of intense negotiations. On Saturday they pledged a tougher approach to migration and stronger domestic security measures.

Kaynak:

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