Europe's Security Incomplete Without Türkiye, Says President Erdogan
Türkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized on Monday that Europe's security is unimaginable without Türkiye, calling the country's EU membership a "strategic priority." Speaking to foreign ambassadors in Ankara during an iftar meal, Erdogan stated that Europe cannot maintain its role as a global actor without Türkiye's rightful place in the bloc, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency
Erdogan urged European leaders to recognize Türkiye's significance and advance its full EU membership with a "visionary perspective." He also expressed concern over the rise of Islamophobia and cultural racism in Western countries, condemning attacks on the Holy Quran under the guise of freedom of speech.
Addressing regional stability, Erdogan reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to maintaining positive relations with Greece and contributing to peace in the Balkans.
On the Israel-Palestine issue, Erdogan warned that Israel will not find lasting peace without the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on 1967 borders. He condemned Israeli provocations at Al-Aqsa Mosque, calling it a "red line" for Türkiye.
Reiterating Türkiye's support for Palestine, he highlighted the country's humanitarian aid efforts, having delivered approximately 100,000 tons of aid to Gaza. He also underscored Türkiye’s involvement in international legal proceedings, including the genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, and noted that nine more nations have recently recognized Palestine as a sovereign state.
