Ankara: Voicing readiness to advance Ankara's relations with European countries, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Monday that Europe cannot ensure its security without Turkey.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan emphasized that recent discussions have highlighted the indispensability of Turkey in European security. "The heated debates over past weeks have shown that European security without Turkey will not be possible," Erdogan stated following a Cabinet meeting in Ankara.
He further elaborated on Europe's growing acknowledgment of Turkey's significance, not only in security issues but also in economic, diplomatic, and social realms. "Europe's need for our country has begun to be openly acknowledged, not only in terms of security but also in many areas, from the economy to diplomacy and from trade to social life," he added.
Erdogan expressed optimism about the future of Turkish-EU relations, noting that European countries are starting to shape their policies on a rational basis and appreciate the importance of maintaining strong ties with Turkey. "As our European friends shape their policies on a rational basis, they also comprehend the importance of relations with Turkey. We see these as promising developments for the future of Turkish-EU relations," he remarked.
Highlighting the necessity for further dialogue and institutional cooperation in light of rapid global changes, Erdogan asserted Turkey's readiness to enhance its relations with European countries and the EU based on common interests and mutual respect. He also touched upon Turkey's vigilant stance on the ongoing war in Ukraine, underscoring its consistent position since the conflict's inception.
Erdogan reiterated Turkey's advocacy for peace, stating, "We continue to uphold the same stance today. As this war enters its fourth year, we hope for an end through a just peace - without further bloodshed or destruction." He acknowledged Russia's partially positive response to the US' 30-day ceasefire proposal, considering it a modest yet valuable step towards peace.