Lisbon: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Monday criticized the European Union's policy on Trkiye's bid to join the bloc, saying Ankara has long sought full EU membership but that political obstacles have prevented this from being realized. In an interview with Portugal's public broadcaster RTP, Fidan noted that Trkiye's inability to fully integrate with the EU, including as a full member, represents a historic missed opportunity for both Trkiye and Europe, arguing that deeper cooperation could have delivered far-reaching strategic gains.
According to Anadolu Agency - English, Fidan described the ties between the EU and Trkiye as "historic," emphasizing that the two sides complement one another structurally. Highlighting Trkiye's dynamic economy, young population, advanced defense industry, and strategic geographic position, Fidan suggested that integrating Trkiye's military capacity and regional influence with the EU could establish a historic partnership benefiting both the region and the wider world. He underscored that while the bloc has succeeded in creating a supranational structure, it has never managed to build a truly civilizational union. He added that the world today needs unity and integrity that transcend civilizations, allowing different cultures to contribute collectively.
Turning to Gaza, Fidan stressed that the international community must apply sustained pressure to ensure the uninterrupted entry of sufficient food, shelter, and humanitarian aid, particularly as winter conditions worsen. He noted that although a fragile ceasefire is in place and limited aid has been allowed into Gaza, this remains inadequate, emphasizing that allowing civilians to face hunger, displacement, and exposure is morally unacceptable.
Addressing the Russia-Ukraine war, Fidan said Trkiye supports Ukraine's territorial integrity and security but has consistently believed that the conflict can only be resolved through dialogue, a ceasefire, and diplomacy. He noted that the war has evolved beyond a bilateral conflict, causing deep political and economic divisions, triggering energy and food crises, and contributing to broader global instability. Fidan stated that Trkiye supports peace initiatives, including efforts by the Trump administration, noting that Ankara's long-standing mediation efforts align with diplomatic shuttle initiatives aimed at bringing the parties together. He highlighted that Trkiye remains the only country able to bring both sides to the negotiating table and that Ankara will continue to do everything possible to help end what he described as a meaningless and destructive war.