Turkey's Approval of the EU Customs Union Agreement

Historical Importance and Background

Turkey's approval of the EU Customs Union Agreement is considered a significant step in the country's integration process with the European Union. This agreement is an important milestone towards Turkey's full membership in the European Union. With the agreement approved on November 20, 1995, Turkey aimed to deepen its trade and economic relations by establishing a customs union with the European Union.

The events leading to Turkey's approval of the EU Customs Union Agreement in 1995 are significant in the historical context of the time. During this period, Turkey made its application for full membership to the European Union and the process officially began. The Customs Union Agreement is one of the important steps taken by Turkey in its integration process with the EU and is part of the reforms the country needs to make to comply with European standards.

Development of the Event

Application for EU Membership by Turkey

In 1995, Turkey applied for full membership to the European Union. This application is a significant turning point in Turkey's integration process with the European Union. Turkey took various steps to meet the necessary criteria for EU membership and carry out the required reforms.

Approval of the Customs Union Agreement

On November 20, 1995, Turkey approved the Customs Union Agreement with the EU and decided to implement the agreement. With this agreement, Turkey abolished customs duties with EU member countries and reduced trade barriers to accelerate economic integration. The approval of the agreement reflects Turkey's goal of establishing closer relations with the European Union and strengthening economic integration.

Results and Impacts

The short-term effects of the approval of the Customs Union Agreement are significant. Turkey's establishment of a customs union with the EU has increased its exports and facilitated access to the EU market. Through the agreement, Turkey has gained the advantage of free trade with EU member countries.

In the long term, the Customs Union Agreement has had profound effects on Turkey's economic and political relations. The agreement has accelerated Turkey's accession process to the EU, aligned the country's economic and legal standards with EU norms, and triggered social changes.

The consequences of the Customs Union Agreement have not only been economic but also led to political changes. Turkey has made progress in democratic reforms and human rights through its integration process with the EU.

Historical Importance and Reflections to the Present Day

The Customs Union Agreement is a historic turning point in Turkey's relations with the European Union. The agreement is an important step for Turkey to undertake the necessary reforms for EU membership and demonstrates the country's progress in its integration process with the EU.

Today, the significance of the Customs Union Agreement still continues. Turkey continues its efforts to improve its trade relations with the EU and deepen economic integration. The agreement has provided a framework for Turkey's relations with the EU and created a roadmap for the country's alignment with EU standards.

In terms of lessons learned, the Customs Union Agreement has provided Turkey with valuable experiences in the process of complying with EU norms. During this process, Turkey has embraced economic and political reforms and accelerated the democratization process by adopting EU standards. The agreement serves as an example of the steps Turkey needs to take for EU membership.