EU leaders will be very short-sighted to block Turkey from accession to full membership in the fullness of time. They should help Turkey honestly and transparently achieve the goal.

On Turkey's side, it cannot be profitable to raise the citizens' hopes only to dash them in this project. Tough decisions and compromises are needed, and unavoidable, by both sides. Politics is good only when it enduringly benefits players and nation. Turkey's leaders must bite the bullet, and deny their detractors - wherever they may be - the chance or pleasure of blocking the deal.

I think it serves the whole world better if and when Turkey moves from NATO's membership to full EU membership. Let the wait be short and precise. No dilly-dally.