Strengthened Türkiye-EU Cooperation Essential Amid Global Shifts

The evolving geopolitical landscape necessitates closer collaboration between Türkiye and the European Union, particularly in strategic and security domains, according to the EU’s ambassador to Ankara, Thomas Ossowski. He emphasized Türkiye’s growing role as a pivotal regional actor during an exclusive interview with Hürriyet and Hürriyet Daily News.

 

Türkiye’s Expanding Geopolitical Influence

Ossowski outlined Brussels’ perspective on Türkiye as both a candidate for EU membership and a strategic partner.

“We are now in the process of reinforcing the relations between the European Union and Türkiye, and that involves dialogue on strategic, political, foreign affairs, and security issues. Türkiye has become a very important player, not only in the Mediterranean but far beyond,” he stated.

Highlighting Türkiye’s influence in Africa, the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, the Middle East, Syria, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia, Ossowski also acknowledged Ankara’s significant role in the Ukraine crisis.

Referring to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent visit to Ankara, the ambassador noted, “It was great to see that the Turkish leadership once again offered its good offices, in contrast to the US-led initiative involving Ukraine at the table. This is an important move, and we appreciate Türkiye’s active role.”

Strategic Alignment Between Türkiye and the EU

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Underscoring shared objectives between Ankara and Brussels, Ossowski stressed the urgency of deeper cooperation.

“Stronger cooperation is not just an option—it’s a necessity. Only by working together can we maximize our impact, not just regarding Ukraine and Russia but also in northern Syria, Africa, and beyond. The EU and Türkiye should be strong partners based on shared strategic interests,” he asserted.

Reviving Bilateral Engagement

Despite Türkiye’s stalled EU accession process since 2018, Ossowski expressed Brussels’ renewed intent to enhance collaboration in key areas such as defense, trade, and the economy.

“We are at a point where we want to move forward together again. For too long, relations between Türkiye and the EU have been at a standstill. Now, we are determined to restart cooperation, and we have a roadmap,” he stated, referring to the European Commission’s 2023 proposals.

He also confirmed upcoming high-level engagements, including Turkish Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek’s visit to Brussels for discussions with EU counterparts, alongside technical negotiations in Ankara aimed at resolving trade barriers.

hürriyetdailynews.com

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