The Ankara Agreement: An Insight into Its History and Significance
The Ankara Agreement is a significant milestone in the history of modern Turkey and the European Union. It was signed between Turkey and the European Economic Community (EEC) on September 12, 1963. The agreement is named after the capital city of Turkey, Ankara, where it was signed.
The Ankara Agreement aimed to establish a Customs Union between Turkey and the EEC member states. It was a major trade agreement that removed all tariffs and quotas on industrial products traded between Turkey and the EEC. As a result, the agreement had a significant impact on the Turkish economy, which was then heavily dependent on agriculture.
The Ankara Agreement paved the way for Turkey-EU relations, which have evolved significantly over the years. It was a stepping stone towards Turkey`s aspiration for full membership of the European Union. The agreement also enabled Turkey to access the European market and benefit from the technological transfer and modernisation it brought.
In 1970, the Ankara Agreement was revised to increase the coverage of products under the customs union. In 1995, the Customs Union was expanded to include agriculture and services. This expansion further strengthened the relationship between Turkey and the EU.
Despite the significant progress made through the Ankara Agreement, Turkey`s ambition to become a full member of the EU has faced several challenges. The issues include political, economic, and social differences between Turkey and the EU member states. The ongoing Cyprus dispute and the treatment of the Kurdish minority in Turkey have also contributed to the challenges.
Turkey`s application for full membership of the EU was accepted in 1999, and negotiations began in 2005. However, the negotiations have moved at a slow pace, and Turkey`s accession to the EU remains uncertain.
The Ankara Agreement remains a significant milestone in the history of Turkey-EU relations. It has created a pathway for cooperation and has had a significant impact on the Turkish economy. The agreement has also enabled Turkey to move towards modernisation and has contributed to the development of its infrastructure.
In conclusion, the Ankara Agreement is an essential part of Turkey`s history. It is a symbol of the country`s ambition to become a significant player in the international community and a bridge between Europe and Asia. The agreement has remained relevant for almost six decades and continues to open new avenues for cooperation between Turkey and the EU.