Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has issued a statement that the European Union will not be able to maintain its power without Ankara’s support
“The EU needs new approaches and structural changes, especially on the issue of the decision-making mechanism. It is clear that without Turkey’s support and contribution, the EU will not be able to maintain its strength”, – Erdogan’s office said in a statement released by the office.
The Turkish leader also noted that, “despite the policy of double standards and obstacles, Turkey remains determined to achieve its strategic goal, which is accession to the EU.”
Turkey applied for accession in 1987, but the negotiation process for its admission to the EU did not begin until 2005. In 2017, the European Parliament passed a resolution calling on EU countries and the EC to suspend accession talks with Turkey until its authorities amend the constitution. In the same year, a referendum on constitutional reform took place that significantly expanded presidential powers.
Over the past few years, Brussels and EU member states have repeatedly stated at various levels that the Turkish actions contribute to alienation from the European community and have urged Ankara to make up its mind.