Turkey’s leading business group slams Austria’s EU call

ISTANBUL

The Turkish Industry and Business Association (TÜSIAD) stated on Dec. 18 that the new Austrian government’s approach to Turkey “harmed bilateral relations and European values.”

In a statement issued over a call by Austria’s new coalition government to halt Turkey’s EU accession negotiations, TÜSIAD described the move as “extremely negative.”

“It is inconsistent with the economic and security interests of all the European people, including Turkey,” said the leading business group.

It described the decision as a new step by a populist political movement that harmed Europe’s global role and democratic values.

“Our priority is Turkey’s democratic reform agenda and [Turkey’s] return to the EU process. The EU must also adopt a constructive and positive policy that avoids excessive populist rhetoric,” the group said.

On Dec. 15, Austria’s center-right OVP (People’s Party) reached a deal with the far-right FPO (Freedom Party) to form a coalition government after eight weeks of intense negotiations.

On Dec. 16, the two parties pledged a tougher approach to migration and domestic security measures.