World media, govts reacts to developments in Ergenekon case

Commenting on the recent detentions in Turkey of a number of retired and active-duty military members, including former force commanders and high-ranking officers, as part of an investigation into an alleged coup plot, an editorial yesterday in Britain's Daily Telegraph called for giving an immediate green light to Turkey's bid to become a part of the European Union. Touching on the conflicting claims by the government and opposition parties over the ongoing Ergenekon case, about an alleged crime network nested within the state accused of plotting to topple the democratically elected government, it said, "Contrary to opposition claims, The Justice and Development Party (AK Party) government asserts that it is making efforts to modernize Turkey by democratizing civilian-military relations to eventually meet EU accession criteria." It added that the truest thing that should be done under these conditions is to allow Turkey into the EU as soon as possible. "Whatever the truth behind the accusations of a coup, the West should do its utmost to ensure our friend and ally remains a stable, democratic and prosperous nation. The best way to do that is to push forward with the accession talks," it said. Another British daily, the Financial Times, wrote that recent political developments in Turkey once more show Turkey's urgent need for new constitution. In related news, US Assistant Secretary of State Philip J. Crowley told reporters that Washington is closely following recent developments in Turkey. "Obviously, we're aware of what has transpired in Turkey, and we want to see this proceed in a transparent process in accordance with Turkish law," he said. Stressing that the US highly values its ties with Turkey, Crowley also said, "We value our relationship with Turkey, our interaction with the Turkish government. As I mentioned yesterday, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had a successful bilateral (meeting) with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan just last week in Doha. And we will remain engaged with Turkey on a wide range of subjects." Commenting on the same developments, Angela Filote, spokeswoman for EU Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fule noted the significance of the news coming from Turkey regarding the alleged coup plots. Stating that the allegations are a serious matter of concern, Filote called for a fair trial.