EU to impose additional sanctions on Turkey

The European Union announced early Dec. 11 that it has decided to impose additional sanctions on Turkish individuals and companies in light of Turkey's activities in the Eastern Mediterranean. 

As the EU Leaders Summit in Brussels continued, the union shared the relevant part of the final declaration on Turkey as they reached a consensus after long hours of negotiations.

The declaration claims that Turkey engaged in unilateral actions and provocations and escalated its rhetoric against the EU.

The EU noted Turkey's withdrawal of the Oruç Reis research vessel and insisted on sustained de-escalation to follow for the early resumption and smooth continuation of direct exploratory talks between Greece and Turkey.

"The European Council reaffirms the EU's strategic interest in the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Turkey. The offer of a positive EU-Turkey agenda remains on the table, provided Turkey shows readiness to promote a genuine partnership with the union and its member states and to resolve differences through dialogue and in accordance with international law," it added.

Highlighting the importance of keeping channels of communication between the EU and Turkey open, it said the EU will continue to provide financial assistance to Syrians in Turkey.

Turkey currently hosts 4 million Syrian refugees, more than any other country in the world.

EU invites council to adopt additional listings

The EU invited the council to adopt additional listings based on its decision on Nov. 11, 2019 concerning restrictive measures in view of Turkey's "unauthorized drilling activities" in the Eastern Mediterranean.

It also invited EU High Representative Josep Borrell...