56709 - The European Parliament voted for measures

N. Lygeros
Translated from the Greek by Athina Kehagias

Even though the voting of the European Parliament is not binding to the leaders of the Member States of the European Union, the result of the voting is however indicative of the inclination within Europe in relation to Turkey’s provocations. The voting in favor of strict sanctions against Turkey, with the adoption of the amendment by the Greek and Cypriot Delegations is spectacular, and it ought to be recorded down as a historic victory. We had 440 votes in favor, 193 against and 53 abstentions. It is also a crystal clear message against Turkey, and it is obvious that the Europeans are not only sick and tired of her tricks, but they are disgusted with her behavior towards European countries. Consequently, the delicate equilibria seeked by Germany due to the Presidency of the European Union, will be recipients of this new democratic pressure for the activation of the measures. Germany can play the game of delay, but not that of the nullification, especially after this result in the European Parliament. There is a growing European will, which has been expressed more and more of late, and this ought to be taken into account by the EU Presidency.