BRUSSELS: Trkiye plays a critical role in the European Union's security and defense, a panel discussion in Brussels underlined Thursday. The panel on the geopolitical challenges facing the EU and the future of EU-Trkiye relations featured Trkiye's Permanent Representative to the EU Ambassador Faruk Kaymakci as well as politicians and academics from Trkiye and Europe. Kaymakci emphasized Trkiye's significance in the context of ongoing conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine. He added that Ankara, an EU membership candidate and NATO ally, is indispensable for the 27-nation bloc's defense and security. He also pointed out that Trkiye's recent defense industry advancements would enhance its strategic value to the EU. Kaymakci said EU deterrence was insufficient and that inadequacy contributed to Russia's aggression toward Ukraine. He argued that integrating Trkiye into the EU's defense strategy could plug this gap and stressed the need for mutual trust and flexibility from the bloc in its defense projec ts. Ayhan Zeytinoglu, the president of the EU-focused Economic Development Foundation, said Trkiye reiterated its pivotal role in the EU's defense by participating in joint missions and supporting its strategic autonomy in areas like the economy, migration, and green transformation. He also affirmed his belief in Trkiye's goal of integration and membership in the EU. EU External Action Service's Baiba Aleksejuka-Tavaresa acknowledged the evolving dynamics in the EU's defense strategy due to the Ukraine war and emphasized the potential for Trkiye-EU cooperation in shared interests. She noted that political differences should not hinder collaboration and cited the Black Sea region and Africa as potential areas for close cooperation. Experts on the panel suggested initiatives such as a trilateral dialogue between the US, EU, and Trkiye to leverage Ankara's experience. They also highlighted the need for the EU to balance its relations with Trkiye for the future success of the European project. Munevver Ceb eci, an academic at Istanbul's Marmara University, said the EU's marginalization of Trkiye sows distrust in bilateral relations. He suggested that the bloc should alter its attitude in relations with other countries. "The EU has to find the right balance in its relations with Trkiye," he said. Meltem Muftuler-Bac from Trkiye's Sabanci University emphasized that Ankara's fundamental role in the EU's security, economic, and military dynamics cannot be overlooked for future regional stability. Source: Anadolu Agency
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