EU-Turkey Migrant Deal on Thin Ice

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has warned that if Brussels does not grant visa-free travel for Turkish citizens then the EU migrant deal agreed in March will be off.

“Five months since the activation of the deal, we proudly witness that we achieved our goal. Turkey is determined to continue the implementation of the deal. As long as the deal is effectively performed, there is no room to fear”, Cavusoglu said in an interview to Greek daily Kathimerini.

However, the Turkish Foreign Minister added that Turkey does not see the EU “keen on delivering on their promises”, despite the fact that irregular migration in the Aegean is now under control.

“We have been clear on the consequences of a possible denial regarding visa liberalization… Turkey cannot continue on its own to stop irregular migration toward the EU while the EU does not assume its obligations. We expect visa liberalization for Turkish citizens at the latest in October 2016″, Cavusoglu said.

“We continue to uphold our commitments to the EU, aiming for full membership and expect that the EU also does the same”, he added.