Rehn: "Urgent reforms on press freedom are needed"

Speaking at a conference marking the 45th anniversary of the Ankara agreement, the basis of Turkish-European Union relations, EU Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn yesterday said that freedom of the press and expression should be priority areas for reform. "The negative atmosphere against the press in Turkey has become a source of serious concern," he said. "Reforms should be made immediately." Stating that the closure case against the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) had diverted precious time and energy away from reforms, Rehn said Turkey should learn from this. Rehn said that Turkey must have broad-based dialogue, adding, "This is important for the country's stability and making progress on its accession."