Austrian government under criticism

The Austrian government, which is now regarded as the main obstacle to Turkey’s EU negotiation framework, has been subject to heavy criticism throughout Europe. French daily Liberation called Austria’s efforts “the last blackmail” while the British Daily Telegraph claimed Austria is sabotaging the negotiation process. The Austrian government has been trying to introduce the term “privileged partnership” into the framework for negotiations. Turkey remains adamant on the matter – if such a last-minute shift is introduced, Turkish officials will not go to Luxembourg on October 3.Under heavy criticism, Austrian Minister of Foreign Affairs Ursula Plassik has claimed that many Europeans share their concerns about Turkey’s membership. Talking to the Associated Press, Plassik underlined the fact that the Austrian government is offering something in case full membership process comes to a halt.   “One day Turkey could become a member if it can fulfil all the criteria and if the EU is able to ‘absorb’ Turkey – until then we have to take the concerns into account,” said Plassik.�