'Miserable Europe' works against Turkey in EC conclusions

NTV

European Council President Herman Van Rompuy welcomes Macedonian Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski (L) before their meeting at the EU Council in Brussels December 6, 2011. REUTERS Photo

The European Council increased its criticism against Turkey after Gül's “miserable Europe” statement, broadcaster NTV reported on its website.
 
The European Council draft reportedly supported Greek Cyprus ambitions in the recent Mediterranean conflict and criticized the Turkish government's attitude during the gas drilling crisis. 
 
The conclusions were highly influenced by Greek Cyprus requests following Gül's “miserable Europe” statement, reports claimed. 
 
Several positive aspects were noted in the conclusions on Turkey's regional impact, but criticism fell heavier on the Turkish government throughout the document.
 
The report said Turkey should stop threatening Greek Cyprus on the gas drilling conflict and accept the Israeli-Greek Cyprus agreements as legal proceedings. 
 
Ankara is further advised to normalize relations with Greek Cyprus as well as open up its ports.
 
The draft also voices concern about freedom of expression in Turkey, citing banned websites and arrested journalists.