Ankara – President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has asserted that Turkey is the key to solving the European Union’s economic, political, and security challenges. Speaking after a Cabinet Meeting at the Presidential Complex, he emphasized that Turkey’s full membership in the EU is essential for the bloc’s survival and stability.
Turkey as Europe’s Lifeline
President Erdoğan stated, “Only Turkey can save the European Union from the deadlock it has fallen into, from the economy to defense, from politics to international reputation. Turkey’s full membership can be the solution. It is also Turkey, with its full membership, that will breathe new life into Europe, whose economy and demographic structure are rapidly aging.”
He noted that discussions surrounding Syria and the Ukraine war have once again reinforced Europe’s need for Turkey, urging the EU to acknowledge this reality sooner rather than later. “The sooner the European Union faces these realities, the better it will be for them,” he added.
EU-Turkey Relations on the Path to Restoration
Highlighting the importance of restoring relations with the European Union, Erdoğan stressed that Turkey’s approach is based on mutual respect and constructive dialogue. “We want to advance our EU membership process on a foundation of mutual respect. If the necessary political will is demonstrated, results can be achieved in a short time. However, this requires the EU and its leading countries to abandon their insistence on past mistakes,” he said.
The president also addressed the rising influence of far-right movements in Europe, stating that mainstream European politics has failed to respond to the changing dynamics of the 21st century. He warned that liberal democracy is facing a crisis, allowing far-right demagogues to fill the political vacuum.
Addressing ongoing conflicts, Erdoğan reiterated Turkey’s commitment to diplomacy in resolving the Russia-Ukraine war. He recalled Turkey’s mediation efforts in 2022, which led to the Black Sea Grain Initiative, allowing millions of tons of grain to reach global markets and preventing a global food crisis. “We are ready to support all diplomatic initiatives that will lead to a just and lasting peace,” he affirmed.
He also criticized Western double standards on international conflicts, particularly regarding Gaza. “Western leaders and institutions have failed the test of humanity by remaining silent on the massacre of over 61,000 civilians, mostly women and children, in Gaza,” he stated.
A Call for a New Vision in Europe-Turkey Relations
Concluding his remarks, Erdoğan called on the European Union to reassess its relationship with Turkey and recognize the country’s strategic importance. “Turkey will continue to engage with the world with a 360-degree approach, keeping one foot firmly in Ankara while embracing the globe,” he declared.
