Greeks Cannot Veto Negotiations to Start in 2005

Top EU executive sources say that the Cyprus string would not be dealt with as part of the decision making process regarding Turkey’s membership negotiations and Greece will not have the power to veto the final decision on Turkey adding, "Hindering a process that 24 countries of the Union approve of is not politically acceptable."

The Foreign Minister of the Greek Cypriot Administration, Georges Yakuvu, had previously threatened Turkey with a veto if it did not recognize the Greek administration. It was suggested that Greek Cyprus might increase pressure on Turkey once negotiations have started.

Possible Revisions on December 17th?

EU sources discussed the reports released on October 6th and emphasized that the restriction of the right to free movement for Turks was not possible and said it contradicts the European spirit. A "positive" general picture was drawn for the start of negotiations and two close dates were identified as possible start dates.

British Foreign Minister Jack Straw expressed the same view during a visit to Ankara last week. According to sources, the negotiations will probably officially start on April 26, 2005 when the Partnership Council convenes.

When asked whether or not elements that displeased Turkey would be modified before December, one source said, "If there are serious anxieties and the EU accepts them, then some topics might be modified because we cannot say that the Council will accept the whole Commission’s report on December 17th." The same source also said that use of the term "open ended" to describe the negotiation process is not new despite Turkish criticism and said no one can guarantee what the outcome of any negotiation process will be at the beginning.