Turkey Slams Cameron Over ‘Shameful’ Comment on EU Accession

Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Numan Kurtulmus said Saturday that remarks made by the UK prime minister on Turkey’s chances to enter the European Union are shameful.

ANKARA (Sputnik) – UK Prime Minister David Cameron said earlier Turkey is unlikely to join the European Union until 3000 year.

"If anyone says that the process of Turkey’s accession to the European Union will continue until 3000, then it is a shame not for Turkey, but for those who voice these thoughts," Kurtulmus stated, addressing lawmakers.

Underscoring Ankara’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations en route to securing visa-free travel for its citizens, Kurtulmus stressed "Turkey does not depend on the European Union."

Brussels and Ankara agreed on a deal this spring under which Turkey pledged to take back one undocumented migrant who arrives in the European Union through its territory in exchange for one Syrian refugee accommodated in Turkey. In return, the 28-member bloc pledged to accelerate the Turkish EU accession bid and introduce a visa-free regime between Turkey and the Schengen area.

Earlier this month, the European Commission recommended that the European Parliament vote on visa-free regime for Turkey once the country meets all 72 required conditions. Most of the requirements have already been fulfilled by Ankara, though five problematic criteria remain, including the revision of Turkey’s national anti-terrorism laws and freedom of the press.