Barroso: Turkey Required to Follow EU Rules

In an interview that will appear in tomorrow’s edition of France’s Le Monde newspaper, Barroso says that Turkey must obey the EU’s rules, not vice versa. Barroso adds that this should not be interpreted as interfering in Turkey’s domestic affairs.

"One who wants to be a member must follow the rules," expresses Barroso.

The Commission President-elect stresses that the religion should not constitute an issue about Turkey’s membership. No problem will arise as long as Democratic order is respected, including the Turkish penal code.

"I accept that Turkey’s membership will bring up new problems. These will be related to its size rather than its religion," indicates Barroso.