(MENAFN) Türkiye continues to be an essential ally for the European Union, engaging with the bloc on numerous shared concerns, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated on Tuesday.

During a joint press briefing with EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos to unveil the 2025 Enlargement Package, Kallas underlined that enlargement remains a "political priority" for the European Commission and a "geopolitical necessity," particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

"Türkiye remains a key partner with whom we are engaged on several issues of common interest, ... but the deterioration of democratic standards, judicial independence, and fundamental rights have de facto frozen the enlargement process since 2018," Kallas remarked.

She stressed that EU enlargement is not merely a procedural exercise involving screening, chapter discussions, and reforms, but also a crucial strategic choice.

"Alignment with the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy is a fundamental part of the process, because it demonstrates a candidate country's choice to see the world the way we see it and shape it together with us," Kallas elaborated.

Furthermore, she pointed out that bolstering the rule of law, combating corruption, and promoting independent journalism are essential not just for economic growth but also for safeguarding both national and European security.

"Security is at the top of everybody's agenda," she added, emphasizing that the EU has already intensified defense and security collaboration with countries seeking membership.

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