Chirac: France will Have Final Word on Turkey

In his response to the question: "Will it not be too late, after December 17, to make a decision about Turkey?" Chirac said that France has the right, and the power, to stop the process when needed. He then reminded his country that the final decision for Turkey’s full membership will belong to the French people when he presents them with a referendum on Turkey’s membership.

According to Chirac, discussions concerning Turkey’s full membership might either be held on, or after, December 17. The discussions will satisfy the requirements of the 5th Republic Constitution. Prime Minister Jean Pierre Raffarin said such discussions on Turkey’s membership may even be held before the December 17th, EU summit.