EU Parliament Members Slams von der Leyen’s Turkey Remarks
MEPs Rudi Kennes and Marc Botenga argued that the European Union should acknowledge a more balanced global order instead of framing geopolitical relations in bloc terms.
The comments in question were delivered during an event in Hamburg celebrating the 80th anniversary of the German publication Die Zeit, where von der Leyen reiterated her backing for EU expansion and emphasized the importance of strengthening Europe’s geopolitical unity.
She stated that the EU must “succeed in completing the European continent so that it is not influenced by Russia, Türkiye, or China,” a formulation that quickly drew attention for grouping Türkiye alongside Russia and China.
"We must succeed in completing the European continent so that it is not influenced by Russia, Türkiye, or China," she said.
Following the reaction, the European Commission issued a clarification, emphasizing that Türkiye continues to be an "unquestionably important partner" for the bloc.
According to a spokesperson, Ankara plays a significant role in areas such as migration management, economic ties, and major connectivity efforts like the Trans-Caspian Middle Corridor. The statement also highlighted Türkiye’s position as a member of NATO and as a candidate for EU membership.
The Commission added that the original remarks were intended to reflect broader geopolitical considerations rather than suggest direct equivalence between the countries mentioned.
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