The code, delayed amid a fight between lawmakers over a proposed ban on adultery, which the EU said didn't meet its standards for human rights and individual freedoms, means the commission can recommend Oct. 6 that talks with Turkey start. The EU will make a final decision at a December summit.

"The penal code is of the greatest importance, because it strengthens the rights of our citizens and the nation's case for becoming a member of the European Union," said Justice Minister Cemil Cicek.

Turkey, whose 70 million citizens are almost 100 percent Muslim, says the start of membership talks will draw in foreign investment and help it tackle $208 billion in debt, equal to about 70 percent of its economic output.

The Japan Times Weekly: Oct. 2, 2004
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