Ankara Agreements: An Overview
Ankara Agreements refer to a series of agreements signed between Turkey and the European Union (EU), which have been in place since 1963. The agreements aim to foster a closer relationship between Turkey and the EU, both politically and economically. The agreements are named after Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, where the first agreement was signed.
The Ankara Agreements have been instrumental in facilitating the movement of Turkish citizens to Europe for work, study, and business. The agreements have also helped to enhance trade between Turkey and the EU by creating a customs union between the two parties. This has helped to create a level playing field for Turkish businesses and ensured that goods can be traded between Turkey and the EU without any barriers.
One of the main benefits of the Ankara Agreements is the ability for Turkish citizens to travel and work in EU member states without the need for a visa. This has allowed Turkish citizens to take up employment in Europe, especially in sectors like hospitality, construction, and healthcare. The agreements have also made it easier for Turkish students to study in EU universities, with many European countries offering scholarships and grants to Turkish students.
However, the Ankara Agreements have not been without controversy. There have been concerns about the impact of Turkish immigration on the labour market in Europe, particularly during periods of high unemployment. Some critics have also argued that the agreements have allowed Turkey to dictate the terms of its relationship with the EU, rather than the other way around.
In recent years, the relationship between Turkey and the EU has become more strained. The EU has raised concerns about human rights abuses in Turkey, particularly in relation to the treatment of Kurdish people and the media. There have also been tensions over the conflict in Syria, with Turkey accusing the EU of not doing enough to support its efforts to contain the conflict.
Despite these challenges, the Ankara Agreements remain an important aspect of Turkey`s relationship with the EU. They have helped to promote economic cooperation and foster closer cultural ties between Turkey and European countries. With Brexit looming, Turkey`s relationship with the EU is likely to become even more important in the years to come.