Erdogan Urges Faster Turkey–EU Customs Union Reform

(MENAFN) Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says recent geopolitical developments underline the growing importance of closer relations between Türkiye and the European Union, according to reports.

He stresses that updating the Customs Union in line with current global conditions is a key priority and describes it as a necessary step for progress toward Türkiye’s EU membership process.

The remarks are made during a meeting in Istanbul with Belgian Queen Queen Mathilde of Belgium, where discussions also cover bilateral relations between Türkiye and Belgium, as well as wider regional and global issues, according to Türkiye’s Communications Directorate.

According to reports, Erdogan also emphasizes that Türkiye’s involvement in EU defense initiatives would serve the interests of all sides, highlighting growing cooperation in security-related areas.

He notes that Türkiye and Belgium have strong potential for expanding cooperation in multiple sectors, including trade, defense industry, energy, and agriculture, and says efforts to deepen bilateral relations will continue.

Erdogan also points to Türkiye’s expanding diplomatic role on the international stage, mentioning upcoming major global events the country will host. These include the NATO leaders’ summit in Ankara scheduled for July 7–8 and the COP31 climate conference set for November 9–20, according to reports.

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