Statement Ministry for Foreign Affairs 30 July 2008
Carl Bildt, Minister for Foreign Affairs

Carl Bildt on the Turkish court decision

Statement by Carl Bildt, Chairman of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe

In reaction to today's decision by the Turkish constitutional court not to ban the AK Party, Carl Bildt, Chairman of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, made the following statement:

"As Chairman-in-Office of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe I note with great satisfaction the decision taken by the constitutional court not to ban the ruling AKP.

"The decision opens up for further reforms, ensuring Turkey's further progress in line with European norms of democratic governance, human rights and the rule of law. The Council of Europe stands ready to assist in this process.

"I also invite the Turkish authorities to make use of the Council of Europe's expertise."