BY ISMET BERKAN
RADIKAL-BYEGM- Columnist Ismet Berkan writes on the importance of EU membership for both the AKP government and the greater welfare of the Turkish nation. A summary of his column is as follows:
Turkey is now at a crossroads. Our country will either undergo the most radical democratic transformation in its history in joining the European Union, or continue with its old regime. Since everybody’s ultimate goal is to raise the welfare of our nation, Turkey must do its utmost to successfully integrate with Europe. Furthermore, even if Turkey chooses to maintain the status quo, it can no longer pursue its old economic policies. We are all aware how we need the implementation of these criteria in order to catch up with international standards in both the economic and social realms. For instance, Turkey cannot attract more foreign investments without sustaining its political and economic stability. Again, the only way to do so is to fulfill the EU’s Copenhagen criteria. The cornerstone of these criteria is helping developing countries to establish democratic institutions and improve their human rights. In brief, not for the sake of the EU membership, but for our own welfare, these criteria should be fulfilled at all costs. Let’s face it! Turkey’s future depends upon them.
What about our government? The Justice and Development Party (AKP) is now facing a difficult test. Suspicions about the ideological roots of this party will never disappear. Both civilian and military bureaucracies alike are currently putting pressure on the AKP. Our government must stick to the EU criteria to ensure its continued rule. Without first improving democracy, righting the imbalance between civilian and military authorities – which is causing the AKP great grief – will prove impossible. In other words, if the AKP chooses a path other than the one leading towards the EU, its days will likely be numbered. That’s why presenting the sixth reform package to the Parliament without first getting the National Security Council’s (NSC) say-so was the right move. I hope we will again do the same thing on June 15, when the National Program is expected.
SOURCE: OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER, DIRECTORATE GENERAL OF PRESS AND INFORMATION