EU positive on Turkey, but work remains

BRUSSELS, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- Turkey has a productive role in the contribution to regional stability, but still needs improvement on several fronts before joining Europe, a draft says.

A draft of a report from the European Union on Turkey obtained by the EUObserver said Ankara has showed its resolve in acting as a leader in diplomatic relations in the Middle East.

It goes on to commend Turkey for its role in the development of a regional diplomatic platform in the wake of the August conflict between Georgia and Russia over the breakaway republic of South Ossetia.

"Turkey (also) undertook efforts as a mediator between Israel and Syria and conducted a dialogue with Iran on the nuclear issue," the draft says.

That progress, however, has not been matched in other fronts, notably its relations with Greece, as Ankara remains the only government to formally recognize the northern so-called Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

The draft European document said also that Turkey has made "no progress" in stemming corruption and organized crime and calls for further transparency in military matters.

"Senior members of the armed forces have continued to make statements on issues going beyond their remit," the report says.

A completed version of the EU document is expected Nov. 5.