The Turkish President Abdullah Gül has been on a state visit to Denmark since Sunday. In view of the crisis in Ukraine it is high time ties between Turkey and the EU were strengthened, the daily Politiken writes (March 17):
“The Crimea crisis is a clear reminder of how decisive it is both for Turkey and the EU to form peaceful and strong alliances – otherwise all of a sudden it’s too late….
“The biggest country on the border between Europe and the Middle East still has a long way to go. But we must hold to the prospect of membership for Turkey, and the EU must develop cooperation with Turkey in all areas. It is crucial that we keep the process of rapprochement between Turkey and the EU alive and strengthen our mutual dependence. Ukraine is once again a grim reminder of the alternative….
“It must be said, however, that the democratic principles of the EU are non-negotiable.”
