SABAH- Columnist A. Savas Akat writes on Turkey's goal of becoming a member of the EU. A summary of his column is as follows:
It is a well-known fact that the Turkish economy is easily influenced by political developments. It is still fresh in our memory that last February's crisis was sparked off by politicians. The question on the minds of the majority of the public is if the Ecevit government will be able to continue. It is always difficult for coalition governments to carry on without any hitches arising between the partners. Notwithstanding all difficulties, this coalition government has been in power for three years. Still there seem to be serious problems looming in the future. I believe that the key to Turkey's long-term economic and political future passes through full membership in the European Union. However, the lobby against our EU membership is escalating its activities. My own views have not changed since a column I wrote one a year ago, excerpts from which follow: 'It is known that those opposed Turkey's EU membership hold immense power. This is not surprising as authoritarian regimes are built on the privileges of its rulers. Democratization and transparency restrict arbitrary rule, and compel those in power to account for their deeds. The freedom of the rulers decreases as the freedom of the civil society increases when arbitrary rule gives way to the rule of law. From the 1970s onwards, I have strongly defended the argument that Turkey should integrate with Europe unconditionally. If we had attained full membership in 1978, today our national per capita income would not be languishing at a quarter of Greece's and would have instead increased twofold or more. I believe that the only meaningful future for a free, stable and prosperous Turkey lies in full membership in the EU. If you don't want your children to live in closed society perpetually at odds with the world, and in a poor environment, you must begin to support full EU membership for Turkey.'

SOURCE: OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER, DIRECTORATE GENERAL OF PRESS AND INFORMATION