ANKARA

Alliance of European Conservatives and Reformists (AECR) in the European Parliament (EP) expressed support for Turkey following Taksim Gezi Park protests.

The AECR said in a statement unrest in Turkey should not distract from Turkey's ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party's proven record on the economy and political reforms.

"Comparisons between the unrest in some Turkish cities and the Arab Spring are wholly inappropriate. Turkey is a pluralist multi-party democracy. There will be free and fair elections in March. The present AK Party government has made great strides toward economic freedom and political normalization," said the statement. 

"Turkey enjoys secure property rights and strong growth, and has made welcome progress on the treatment of minorities and on the civilization of politics."  

The AECR also said everyone had the right of peaceful protest, and they welcomed the fact that representatives of the government had been willing to meet demonstrators to discuss the issue of the Taksim Gezi Park development, adding, "We hope that the violence of recent days will now die down."

"Given the tragic events in Syria, and the instability in the region, we believe that the partnership between Turkey and the EU is more important than ever, and we deplore the inflammatory language that has come from some European political leaders," the AECR added.

englishnews@aa.com.tr