President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reaffirmed that full EU membership remains one of Turkey’s central strategic objectives despite political hurdles that continue to complicate negotiations with Brussels.
Speaking after a cabinet meeting in Ankara, he emphasized that Turkey maintains its commitment to accession and considers strengthened cooperation with the EU a key pillar of its foreign policy agenda.
Erdogan noted that Ankara and Brussels continue to engage on major international issues, highlighting that Turkey’s long-term vision continues to include full integration into the European bloc.
Black Sea security tensions rise amid Erdogan’s warnings and reaffirmation of EU membership aspirations
The Turkish President expressed heightened concern over the deteriorating security environment in the Black Sea as the Russia–Ukraine war intensifies. He pointed to a recent attack on a tanker operating within Turkey’s exclusive economic zone and called the incident a troubling escalation that endangers lives and poses environmental risks.
Erdogan stressed that Turkey has issued the necessary warnings to all parties involved. Safeguarding maritime routes in the Black Sea, he said, remains essential for regional stability, trade and the broader security architecture surrounding Europe’s eastern flank.
He reiterated that Turkey will continue working to halt hostilities in the region and promote long-term stability. Ankara’s diplomatic efforts, he said, aim to reduce tensions and protect critical maritime corridors affected by the ongoing conflict.
Turkey’s domestic agenda—addressing the Kurdish issue and a call for unity across the nation
Turning to domestic affairs, the President addressed the government’s approach to the Kurdish issue, describing it as part of a broader strategy to eliminate terrorism and strengthen social cohesion.
He expressed confidence that a more peaceful future could emerge through sustained political engagement and community cooperation. Closing his remarks, Erdogan urged citizens to avoid provocation and act with restraint, underscoring the importance of unity during a period marked by regional insecurity.
He expressed confidence that the collective resolve of Turkey’s 86 million citizens would help shape what he referred to as the “Century of Turkey,” a vision centered on national strength and stability.
