In a recent phone conversation with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan emphasized the strategic significance of Türkiye-European Union relations amidst rising regional tensions. The discussion addressed both Türkiye-EU relations and broader regional and global developments, as conveyed by the Turkish Communications Directorate via the NSosyal platform.
Erdoğan highlighted Türkiye’s commitment to maintaining a cease-fire and promoting peace in the ongoing regional conflict, stressing the urgent need to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He criticized Israel, accusing it of seeking to prolong conflicts and violating international law through actions he described as piracy, and called for increased international pressure on Israel.
Furthermore, President Erdoğan advocated for Türkiye’s inclusion in European security strategy initiatives, arguing that this would be advantageous. He also stressed the importance of updating the Turkish-EU Customs Union and expanding cooperation across various sectors to bolster economic integration and advance mutual interests.