” ” ” “During the debate at the EU Parliament in Strasbourg, the MEPs highlighted several problems that concern Turkey: its relations with Cyprus and the need to recognise the Republic; its relations with the Kurdish minority; the urgent need to "come to terms with the past" (the genocide of Armenians). Other speeches insisted on the lack of freedom and fundamental rights, the lack of protection of religious minorities. The Oomen-Ruijten resolution, which is put to the vote, condemns "the violence committed by Pkk" and "urges the government to launch a political initiative that may promote a long-term solution for the Kurdish question". To Turkey, the MEPs ask "not to infringe the Iraqi region". In addition, the resolution contains an opinion in favour of the opening of an energy file, within the accession negotiations, and lists a number of areas in which real progress needs to be made: "judicial reforms, fight against corruption, respect of rights and fundamental freedoms, zero tolerance with torture, protection of women and minorities". The resolution will be sent on to the EU Commission, which on November 6th will publish the reports on the progress made by Turkey, Croatia and FYROM with a view to joining the EU.” ” ” “
