EU officials hail strategic ties with Türkiye after Ankara talks

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on Tuesday described Türkiye as "a key partner on security, migration, and energy" following talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, also underlining the country's status as an EU candidate, according to Anadolu Agency. The sides discussed Russia's war against Ukraine, conflicts in the Middle East, and preparations for the upcoming NATO Summit, with Kallas noting that Ankara is making a significant contribution to protecting the alliance's Eastern Flank.

In a joint statement issued after the meetings, the sides reaffirmed "the strategic value of Türkiye-EU relations" and their determination to enhance cooperation. They reiterated commitment to upholding Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, voiced support for efforts by the UN Secretary-General on the Cyprus issue, and agreed to coordinate complementary Turkish and EU efforts in the South Caucasus.

Economic and Migration Cooperation

EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner said cooperation on security and migration remained a top priority for both sides, stating that "the current geopolitical situation highlighted that we face common challenges and we need to work together." European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos stressed the benefits of closer cooperation, pointing to opportunities to increase trade and investment while strengthening transport, energy and digital connectivity between Europe and Asia.

The two sides agreed to continue efforts to modernize the Customs Union and strengthen cooperation on migration and border management, welcoming the gradual resumption of the European Investment Bank's operations in Türkiye. They also committed to holding new rounds of high-level dialogues before the end of the year on economy, trade, migration, security, health, science and agriculture.