Turkey's Potential EU Membership: The Future of the Customs Union Agreement

Category : Turkey Potential Membership in the European Union en | Sub Category : Future of Customs Union Agreement with the EU Posted on 2023-07-07 21:24:53

Turkey's Potential EU Membership: The Future of the Customs Union Agreement

Turkey's relationship with the European Union has been a complex and contentious issue for many years. One key aspect of this relationship is the Customs Union Agreement between Turkey and the EU, which has been in place since 1995. This agreement has allowed for the free movement of goods between Turkey and the EU member states, and has been beneficial for both parties in terms of trade and economic cooperation.

With Turkey's long-standing aspirations of becoming a member of the European Union, the future of the Customs Union Agreement has become a significant point of discussion. Some argue that upgrading the agreement to include services, agriculture, and public procurement would benefit both Turkey and the EU by further integrating their economies. This could lead to increased trade and economic growth for both parties.

On the other hand, some EU member states have expressed reservations about deepening ties with Turkey, citing concerns about human rights issues, freedom of speech, and the rule of law in the country. These issues have been obstacles to Turkey's accession process to the EU, and have also impacted discussions regarding the Customs Union Agreement.

Despite these challenges, Turkey's strategic location, large market, and growing economy make it an important partner for the European Union. The potential benefits of closer economic integration through an updated Customs Union Agreement are certainly enticing for both sides. However, progress on this front will likely depend on the resolution of key political and human rights issues in Turkey.

In conclusion, Turkey's potential EU membership and the future of the Customs Union Agreement are closely intertwined. While there are challenges to be overcome, the economic benefits of a closer relationship between Turkey and the EU cannot be ignored. It remains to be seen how these issues will be navigated in the coming years, and what impact they will have on the future of the relationship between Turkey and the European Union.