At the fifth European Political Community summit in Budapest, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized the importance of Turkey’s full participation in EU defense efforts for the security and peace of Europe. He noted that the current security challenges extend beyond military threats to include issues like energy security, cyberattacks, migration, and pandemics. Erdogan stressed the growing negative impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine, advocating for a diplomatic solution to achieve lasting peace.
Erdogan also condemned the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling it a “genocide” and urged an immediate ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid. He criticized unconditional support for Israel’s actions, highlighting the need for pressure to end the violence and for the recognition of Palestine as a state.
On Turkey’s role in regional stability, Erdogan highlighted the country’s significant contributions to peace and security, calling for the removal of barriers to Turkey’s participation in the European Defense Agency. He also addressed rising Islamophobia, xenophobia, and racism in Europe, urging cooperation to strengthen social cohesion.
Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to EU relations, noting that political barriers to Turkey’s EU accession must be removed, and called for European support in combating terrorism, particularly the PKK and the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO). He also pointed out the need for judicial cooperation regarding FETO members in Europe.
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