Budapest: Trkiye's full inclusion in EU defense efforts is "essential" for Europe's peace and security, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday. Speaking at the fifth European Political Community summit in Hungary's capital Budapest, Erdogan stated that Europe is facing multidimensional security challenges that require collective action. According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan emphasized that security challenges are no longer confined to military threats, terrorist attacks, and hybrid warfare. He pointed out that issues like energy security, cyberattacks, migration flows, pandemics, and systemic violations of international law are affecting everyone. He stressed that many threats to peace, stability, and prosperity have reached levels that cannot be addressed unilaterally. Erdogan noted the ongoing conflict in Europe, particularly highlighting the prolonged war in Ukraine. He stated that the war's continuation is diminishing diplomatic opportunities, emphasizing the need for a negotiation proce ss. He mentioned his efforts in promoting diplomacy through meetings with Russian and Ukrainian officials. The Turkish President also addressed the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East, describing the situation in Gaza as a "genocide" and calling for international pressure on Israel to ensure a ceasefire and humanitarian aid. He criticized those supporting Israel's actions and revealed efforts at the UN to prevent further militarization of the region. Erdogan urged the recognition of Palestine as a state, commending countries like Ireland, Norway, Spain, and Slovenia for their steps in this direction. Erdogan highlighted Trkiye's significant contributions to the Europe-Atlantic region, noting its role as a leading NATO ally and its cooperation with partners across various regions. He called for the removal of obstacles to Trkiye's participation in European defense initiatives and condemned the rise of hate, Islamophobia, and racism in Europe, which he sees as threats to social cohesion and stability. The Turkish President reiterated Trkiye's readiness for dialogue and cooperation with the EU, criticizing the lack of justification for blocking Trkiye's EU accession process. He called for European cooperation in combating terrorism, specifically mentioning the PKK and FETO groups. European leaders at the summit, hosted by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, are discussing global issues, including the situations in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as irregular migration and Europe's economic security.