30/11/2004 (Agence Europe) - The Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Network (EMHRN) has stated in a press release that in their fight for democracy and human rights, the Turkish democratic forces need support, and that the opening of accession negotiations to the EU would constitute this kind of support. If the EU "turns its back in Turkey", the Turkish population may suffer a serious setback from the progress it has made in recent years, warned EMHRN. The network "therefore welcomes the recommendation of the European Commission to open accession negotiations" with Ankara, but with a possible suspension in case of a serious and persistent breach of the principles of democracy, respect for human rights, and the rule of law.