Erdoğan Says Europe Is Incomplete Without Türkiye

According to Turkey’s state-run Anadolu Agency, Erdoğan noted that the core values of the European Union, established 76 years ago, are currently being tested by global challenges including wars, political instability, and economic crises.

The Turkish president argued that ongoing global conflicts and economic difficulties are pushing the European Union toward adopting more inclusive and unified policies. In that context, he described Türkiye, as an EU candidate country, as an “essential and important partner.”

Erdoğan also stated that Ankara remains committed to advancing relations with the European Union on a “win-win basis,” guided by mutual responsibility and the goal of full membership. However, he added that Türkiye expects the same level of sincerity from the European Union.

“We have said before that the European Union needs Türkiye more than Türkiye needs the European Union. This need will increase even further in the future,” Erdoğan said.

Concluding his message, the Turkish leader expressed hopes for peace, prosperity, and solidarity across Europe on the occasion of Europe Day, while extending greetings to both European citizens and the Turkish people.