Turkey's temper tantrum over EU suspension talk

Turkey has rejected the call by the European Parliament to suspend accession talks with Turkey, said Turkish EU Affairs Minister Omer Celik, adding it was a political decision

European Commissioner for Enlargement Johannes Hahn (L) and Turkish EU Affairs Minister Omer Celik on Thursday. PIC/AFP

Turkey has rejected the call by the European Parliament to suspend accession talks with Turkey, said Turkish EU Affairs Minister Omer Celik on Thursday, adding it was a political decision, which Ankara regarded as invalid.

The parliament on Thursday asked for Turkey's European Union accession talks to be suspended if Ankara implements a constitutional overhaul, backed by a referendum in April, which expands the powers of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Turkish foreign ministry spokesman Huseyin Muftugolu separately said the decision was based on false claims and allegations, and undermined the parliament's reputation.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!