Europe is incomplete without Turkey: Erdogan

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that Europe is incomplete without Turkey. He said that if Turkey is not properly included, the European security and political structure will remain ‘incomplete and weak in dealing with crises’. He made the remarks in a message on the occasion of Europe Day on Saturday (May 9). The country’s Anadolu Agency reported this information in a report.
Erdogan said that the ‘Schuman Declaration’, known as the foundation of European integration, is not only a symbol of the European Union, but also a reflection of the commitment to build a common future based on peace, cooperation and mutual respect. He said that the core principles of the European Union established 76 years ago are currently being tested in the face of various global challenges, including war, political instability and economic crisis.
According to the Turkish president, the ongoing conflicts and economic crisis around the world are ‘forcing’ the European Union to adopt a more inclusive and united policy. He also noted that Turkey, as a candidate country, is an ‘indispensable and important partner’ in this process.
Erdogan also said that Ankara is committed to advancing relations with the European Union on a ‘win-win’ basis, with a sense of mutual responsibility and the goal of full membership in mind. However, Turkey is ‘expecting’ the same sincerity from the European Union.
The Turkish president said, ‘We have said before that just as Turkey needs the European Union, the European Union needs Turkey. This need will increase in the future.’ In the final part of the message, Erdoğan wished for peace, prosperity and solidarity throughout Europe on the occasion of Europe Day. At the same time, he extended his greetings to the people of Europe and the citizens of Turkey.