The United States and Europe pressed Turkey on Monday to follow the rule of law and maintain democratic principles despite a crackdown after an attempted coup.
European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini suggested that Turkey’s bid for E.U. membership could be at stake if it reinstates the death penalty against coup plotters.
“No country can become a partner state if it introduces the death penalty,” she told reporters.” That is key.”
Secretary of State John F. Kerry followed her warning, saying NATO will be scrutinizing Turkey in coming days to ensure that it fulfills the alliance's requirement that members adhere to democratic governance.
“NATO also has a requirement with respect to democracy,” Kerry said.
Kerry said Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has repeatedly assured him that the government will respect democracy and the law, and he warned that NATO will “measure” Turkey’s actions.
“Obviously, a lot of people have been arrested and arrested very quickly,” Kerry said. “The level of vigilance and scrutiny is obviously going to be significant in the days ahead. Hopefully we can work in a constructive way that prevents a backsliding.”
While NATO will be watching the Turkish government’s actions carefully, State Department spokesman John Kirby said, “it's too soon to say that their membership is at risk.”
https://www.washingtonpost.com/worl...re-top-stories_kerry-750a-top2:homepage/story
European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini suggested that Turkey’s bid for E.U. membership could be at stake if it reinstates the death penalty against coup plotters.
“No country can become a partner state if it introduces the death penalty,” she told reporters.” That is key.”
Secretary of State John F. Kerry followed her warning, saying NATO will be scrutinizing Turkey in coming days to ensure that it fulfills the alliance's requirement that members adhere to democratic governance.
“NATO also has a requirement with respect to democracy,” Kerry said.
Kerry said Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has repeatedly assured him that the government will respect democracy and the law, and he warned that NATO will “measure” Turkey’s actions.
“Obviously, a lot of people have been arrested and arrested very quickly,” Kerry said. “The level of vigilance and scrutiny is obviously going to be significant in the days ahead. Hopefully we can work in a constructive way that prevents a backsliding.”
While NATO will be watching the Turkish government’s actions carefully, State Department spokesman John Kirby said, “it's too soon to say that their membership is at risk.”
https://www.washingtonpost.com/worl...re-top-stories_kerry-750a-top2:homepage/story
