At the end of a three-day visit to Turkey, including talks with Turkish authorities, leaders of the opposition and representatives of minorities, NGOs concerned with religious and women's rights, president of the S&D Group Gianni Pittella, stated:

"The European Union must offer Turkey a real perspective for integration. It is not just the EU's recognition of Turkey's status as a candidate for EU membership that is at stake, but also a strategic, economic and geopolitical vision that the European Union cannot ignore. Any single or national issue should not be allowed to take this process hostage. Only a genuine option for European integration can bring Turkish political life towards European standards. And only a genuine option for European integration can ensure the implementation of reforms in Turkey on minorities, women's rights, religious and media freedom. A genuine European future can also have a positive influence on the peace negotiations with the Kurds and persuade Ankara to fully commit itself in the decisive fight against the Islamic State.

"No matter how long the integration process takes, greater European integration is in the interests of both Europe and Turkey. Therefore, we want to open negotiations on chapters 23 and 24 of accession talks (on justice, fundamental rights and freedoms) but also chapter 17 (on economic and monetary policy) would be desirable in the near future.    

"In addition, as Socialists and Democrats, we strongly believe the time has come for a comprehensive solution to the Cyprus issue – according to international law and for the benefit of both the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot populations. Concerning the recent dispute over the natural gas deposits in the eastern Mediterranean, we expect Turkey to respect Cyprus’ sovereignty over its territorial waters. At the same time, we recommend that the Cyprus authorities consult with Turkish counterparts in the exploration and exploitation activities and share the benefits for all Cypriots."