EU-Turkey relations: Op-ed

With the latest worrying developments in the international scene, I believe it is time for the EU to rethink its policy approach towards Turkey. Both Turkey and the EU face the same difficulties, especially at the moment in the Middle East.
Together we would have much greater strength to influence the events to come. In that context, discussion of "EU-Turkey Relations" will remain incomplete unless without first examining closely the interaction between Turkey and Europe.
Turkey and the rest of Europe share a common historical heritage from ancient times. The major currents of modern history that originated in Europe, even those like the Renaissance, Reformation, Enlightenment and perhaps especially the French Revolution, which had a transformative impact on the world scene, also played a key part in the quest for the renewal of the Ottoman Empire from which the creation of modern Turkey sprang.
This relationship process has had a profound impact on both sides. It inspired Mozart to compose the "Ronda alla Turca," and also Ayvazosky in his paintings and Pierre Loti in his books. It is humanitarian, as the Ottoman Empire was also the refuge to European Jews so badly sought in 1492 and again in the late 1930s and 1940s.
It is security, as Turkey has been contributing to NATO or the CFSP (Common Security and Foreign Policy) or various security cooperation arrangements. It is economic, as Turkey is Europe's sixth-largest economy. It certainly is political, as the Ottomans were part of the Concert of Europe in the 19th century, while modern Turkey was among the early members of the Council of Europe in the 20th century, joining not long after it was set up.
And, as you all know, Turkey has pursued the goal of joining the European Communities since...

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