Europe 1 with AFP 9:54 p.m., April 1, 2024
The head of European diplomacy Josep Borrell praised Monday the "calm" and "professionalism" of the municipal elections in Turkey marked by the victory of the opposition, believing that their smooth running honored the country.
“Holding the municipal elections calmly and professionally honors Turkey and demonstrates citizens' commitment to local democracy,” Josep Borrell said in a message on the social network X.
The holding of the municipal elections in a calm & professional manner honors Türkiye & shows the citizens' commitment to local democracy. Fundamental rights & democracy are at the core of our relations: looking forward to working together on reforms bringing closer to the EU
— Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) April 1, 2024
EU seeks high-level dialogue with Ankara
Municipal elections on Sunday in Turkey marked the victory of the secular CHP party at the head of the country's main cities, including Istanbul, against the party of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. “Fundamental rights and democracy are at the heart of our relations: we look forward to working together on reforms that bring us closer to the EU,” he added.
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Negotiations between the European Union and Turkey, a candidate for membership since 1999, have been frozen since 2018. The EU is now seeking a high-level dialogue with Ankara and to improve cooperation on subjects of common interest such as migration, energy or trade.