EU to seek closer ties with Türkiye after Ukraine conflict – EU commissioner

The EU is looking to get closer to Türkiye again. After the Ukraine conflict, things are changing in Europe. The EU sees Türkiye as a partner that can help with stability in the region. This might mean working together more, even though there have been disagreements in the past. It’s about finding common ground on important issues.

Key Takeaways

• The EU wants a stronger relationship with Türkiye, especially after the Ukraine conflict. EU Commissioner Marta Kos sees Türkiye as a vital partner for peace and stability in Europe.
• Türkiye’s role in the Black Sea region and its military strength make it important for EU security. The EU is looking at defense cooperation and Turkey’s capabilities.
• While EU accession talks are stalled, the EU is looking to update trade and economic ties, possibly through modernizing the Customs Union and investing in renewable energy.
• Migration and foreign policy differences still exist, but the EU and Türkiye are exploring ways to work together on these fronts.
• Türkiye’s position between Russia and the West means it plays a balancing act. The EU sees potential for cooperation in areas like peacekeeping and countering illicit activities.

EU & Turkey: A Shifting Strategic Landscape

The dust is still settling from the Ukraine conflict, and already the European Union is looking at Turkey with fresh eyes. For years, it felt like Brussels saw Ankara mostly as a problem, but now, things are changing. With peace talks in Ukraine starting to gain some traction, Turkey’s position as a regional player, especially in the Black Sea, makes it a partner the EU can’t afford to ignore. It’s a big shift, and frankly, it’s about time.

Post-Ukraine Conflict Realities

The war in Ukraine has really shaken things up across Europe, and the Black Sea region is no exception. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos has been pretty clear about this, stating that peace in Ukraine will fundamentally alter the landscape, and Turkey will be a vital partner in this new reality. Preparing for a stable Europe means getting serious about working with Ankara. It’s not just about defense; it’s about shaping the future order.

Ankara’s Pivotal Role in Regional Stability

Let’s be honest, Turkey is a major player. They’ve got the second-largest military in NATO, and their location is just strategically massive. Think about the Bosphorus Strait – controlling that gives them serious influence. Remember the grain deal? Turkey was key in making that happen, showing they can actually get things done on the international stage. They’ve even said they’d be willing to send peacekeeping forces if a deal is struck in Ukraine, which is a big deal.

• Turkey commands NATO’s second-largest armed forces.
• Controls the strategically vital Bosphorus Strait.
• Played a key role in brokering the Black Sea Grain Initiative.
• Expressed willingness to participate in peacekeeping operations.

The EU needs to recognize Turkey’s capabilities and its willingness to contribute to regional security. Ignoring this potential would be a mistake.

Reassessing the EU-Turkey Partnership

This isn’t just about the Ukraine war, though. The EU and Turkey have a long, complicated history. Accession talks have been stalled, there are trade disagreements, and migration has always been a sore point. Plus, let’s not forget the foreign policy differences. But with the new geopolitical situation, Brussels seems ready to put some of that baggage aside and look for common ground. It’s a pragmatic move, and frankly, it’s overdue. The European Investment Bank is even planning to return with loans for renewable energy projects, which is a good sign for economic ties. We’re seeing a real push to improve relations, and that includes looking at stricter immigration policies in Europe, which Turkey also has to deal with.

Bridging Divides: The EU & Turkey’s Path Forward

Addressing Stalled Accession Talks

The whole EU accession process for Turkey has been a mess for years, frankly. It feels like Brussels keeps moving the goalposts, and Ankara gets frustrated. We’re talking about a country that’s a major player, right on Europe’s doorstep. It’s time for a serious rethink of how we approach these talks, or if they’re even the right framework anymore. Maybe we need to look at a different kind of partnership, something more practical that acknowledges current realities.

The EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos is visiting Turkey, which is a step, but we need more than just visits. We need concrete action. The old arguments about democracy and rule of law are valid, sure, but they can’t be the only things on the table when there’s so much else at stake. We need to figure out how to move past this deadlock.

Modernizing Trade and Economic Ties

Look, the current trade deal, the Customs Union, is ancient. It was set up back in the 90s, and frankly, it’s not working for anyone anymore. Turkey wants an update, and it makes sense. They feel disadvantaged, and honestly, who can blame them? We’re talking about a huge market and a lot of potential for growth. The European Investment Bank is even planning to put some money back into renewable energy projects there, which is good, but it’s just a small piece of the puzzle. We need to get serious about updating this economic relationship. It’s not just about goods; it’s about investment, jobs, and making sure both sides benefit. This is a key part of Ankara Brussels cooperation.

Navigating Migration and Foreign Policy Differences

Migration is always a big one, isn’t it? Turkey sits in a tough spot geographically, and they’ve taken in a lot of people. We need to work together on this, but it’s complicated. Then there’s foreign policy. Turkey’s relationship with Russia, for example, is something we in the West find difficult to understand. They’re a NATO ally, but they keep ties with Moscow.

It’s a balancing act, and it creates friction. We need to have open conversations about these differences, not just pretend they don’t exist. Finding common ground on security issues, especially with everything going on in Eastern Europe, is going to be tough but necessary. The future of European Union Turkey relations depends on tackling these hard issues head-on.

Turkey’s Defense Prowess and EU Security

Strengthening Defense Dialogue

The EU is starting to see Turkey not just as a neighbor, but as a serious player in European security. After years of friction, the post-Ukraine conflict landscape demands a more practical approach. Turkey, with NATO’s second-largest military, is a force to be reckoned with. It’s a big deal that the EU recently appointed its first military advisor to its delegation in Turkey. This isn’t just about appearances; it’s about opening up real conversations on defense matters. Germany, for one, has been pushing for deeper talks, recognizing that Turkey’s military capabilities are something the EU needs to engage with, not ignore.

Cooperation in Defense Industry

When we talk about defense, it’s not just about soldiers and tanks. It’s also about the gear they use. Turkey has made some serious strides in its defense industry, especially with drones. Some folks in Germany are looking closely at this, seeing opportunities for cooperation. It makes sense, right? Instead of reinventing the wheel, why not work with a partner who’s already got the goods? This could mean joint projects, sharing know-how, and generally making the defense sector on both sides stronger and more efficient. It’s a business proposition, really, and one that could pay off.

Turkey’s Military Capabilities

Let’s be clear: Turkey’s military isn’t some small outfit. It’s a major player, strategically located and with a significant presence in the region. Think about its control over the Bosphorus Strait – that’s a big deal for shipping and security. They were instrumental in getting that grain deal going from Ukraine, which shows they can get things done when they put their mind to it. They’ve even signaled they’d be willing to send peacekeeping forces if a deal is struck in Ukraine. That kind of capability and willingness to act is exactly what the EU is starting to realize it needs to work with, not against. It’s about pragmatism in a changing world.

EU & Turkey: A Pragmatic Approach to Geopolitics

The whole Ukraine war situation has really shaken things up, hasn’t it? It’s made the EU look at Turkey a bit differently. For a while there, it felt like Brussels was mostly focused on what Turkey wasn’t doing right, but now, with all the chaos in Eastern Europe, they’re starting to see Ankara as someone who can actually help get things done. It’s a big shift, and honestly, it makes sense. The EU foreign policy is clearly being reshaped by the Ukraine war, and Turkey’s position is just too important to ignore.

Turkey’s Balancing Act with Russia

Look, Turkey’s got a complicated relationship with Russia. They’re not exactly on the same page about everything, but they also haven’t completely cut ties. They still get gas from Russia, and there are big projects going on. This isn’t about liking Russia; it’s about Turkey playing its own game, trying to keep its options open. They’ve been pretty good at talking to both sides, even hosting talks between Russia and Ukraine at one point. It’s a tough spot to be in, but it means they can talk to Moscow when others can’t.

Potential for Peacekeeping Operations

Now, here’s where things get interesting. Turkey has actually said they’d be willing to send troops to help keep the peace in Ukraine, but only if there’s a real agreement and everyone’s on board. That’s a big ‘if’, of course. Russia isn’t exactly thrilled about the idea of Western forces in Ukraine, calling it interference. But if a deal is struck, Turkey’s military size and its location make it a serious player.

• Turkey has NATO’s second-largest army.
• Ankara controls key waterways like the Bosphorus.
• They’ve shown willingness to mediate in conflicts.

Countering Illicit Activities

Beyond the big geopolitical moves, the EU also sees Turkey as a partner in stopping bad stuff from happening. Think about things like smuggling or other illegal activities that can pop up when borders are unstable. Turkey’s got a long border and a lot of coastline, so working together on this makes sense. It’s not just about grand strategy; it’s about practical security.

The EU is realizing that ignoring Turkey’s regional influence isn’t a viable strategy anymore. The Ukraine conflict has forced a more realistic look at who can actually contribute to stability, and Turkey, despite its own issues with Brussels, is clearly on that list. It’s less about ideology and more about what works on the ground.

It’s also worth noting that Turkey is getting pretty good at making its own military gear, like drones. Some European countries are even looking at that, which is another layer to this whole partnership idea. It’s not just about what Turkey can do for the EU, but also what they can do together.

Economic Re-engagement: EU & Turkey

Look, the EU and Turkey have a long history, and frankly, it’s been a bit of a bumpy road lately. But with everything going on in the world, especially with the Ukraine situation, Brussels is starting to see the value in a stronger connection with Ankara. It’s not just about politics; it’s about practical stuff, like money and trade. The EU is looking to rebuild economic ties with Turkey, recognizing its importance in the region.

Renewable Energy Investments

This is a big one. The European Investment Bank is planning to put about €200 million into renewable energy projects in Turkey. This is a good sign, showing they’re willing to invest in Turkey’s future, especially in green energy. It’s a step away from the freeze that happened a few years back.

European Investment Bank’s Return

As mentioned, the EIB is coming back to the table. After a pause, they’re ready to lend money for renewable energy. This isn’t just charity; it’s about creating opportunities and strengthening the economic bond. It shows a practical approach to rebuilding the Turkey EU partnership.

Market Access and Trade Opportunities

Turkey has been pushing to update its trade deal with the EU, the Customs Union. It’s been around for 30 years, and frankly, it’s a bit outdated. Ankara wants better market access, and Brussels is listening. There’s a lot of potential here for both sides if they can sort out the details. It’s about making it easier for businesses to trade and invest, which is good for everyone involved. This could really help move the needle on EU accession for Turkey, even if it’s just in the economic sphere for now.

The economic relationship between the EU and Turkey is complex, but there’s a clear recognition that a more robust partnership benefits both sides. Focusing on areas like renewable energy and modernizing trade agreements makes sense, especially given the current geopolitical climate. It’s about finding common ground and moving forward pragmatically.

Here’s a quick look at what’s happening:

• Renewed investment in green energy projects.
• Efforts to modernize the existing trade agreement.
• Increased focus on market access for Turkish goods and services.
• Potential for greater cooperation in the defense industry, which has economic implications.

What’s Next?

So, the EU’s talking about getting closer to Turkey again, especially with all the mess going on in Ukraine. It’s kind of a big deal because, let’s be honest, things haven’t been smooth between them for a while. But now, with the war changing things, the EU sees Turkey as maybe being helpful, especially around the Black Sea. They’re even talking about money for green energy projects. It’s a bit of a shift, going from seeing Turkey as a problem to maybe part of the answer. We’ll have to wait and see if this actually leads to anything real, or if it’s just more talk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the EU suddenly interested in closer ties with Türkiye?

The war in Ukraine has changed things in Europe. The EU sees Türkiye as a key partner to help bring peace and stability, especially in the Black Sea region. Türkiye’s location and its role in regional matters make it important for the EU’s future plans.

Are the EU and Türkiye going to start talking about Türkiye joining the EU again?

While Türkiye is still officially a candidate to join the EU, the talks have been stuck for a while. However, with the new focus on partnership, there’s hope for better cooperation. Both sides have mentioned working together on security and economic matters, which could lead to progress.

What does Türkiye’s military strength have to do with the EU?

Türkiye has one of the biggest armies in NATO and is in a very important location. The EU sees Türkiye’s defense skills and its role in keeping the region safe as valuable. They are looking to talk more about defense and maybe even work together on making military equipment.

How does Türkiye’s relationship with Russia affect this new EU partnership?

Türkiye has tried to keep good relations with both Russia and Ukraine. While it hasn’t joined Western sanctions against Russia, it has also helped with things like the grain deal. The EU understands Türkiye’s balancing act and sees potential for cooperation, even with these differences.

Will the EU invest more money in Türkiye?

Yes, the EU is planning to bring back investments. The European Investment Bank will offer money for projects that help with renewable energy, like solar and wind power. This shows the EU wants to boost economic ties and support Türkiye’s green energy goals.

What are some of the main disagreements between the EU and Türkiye?

There have been issues like stalled talks about Türkiye joining the EU, arguments over trade rules, and disagreements about migration and foreign policies. The EU has also raised concerns about democracy in Türkiye, which Ankara denies. Fixing these issues is important for a stronger partnership.