Turkey’s EU Membership Aspirations: Implications for Greece and Europe

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has intensified calls for Turkey’s accession to the European Union, emphasizing its importance for the EU’s global influence. This push comes amid altering geopolitical dynamics following Donald Trump’s re-emergence. Concerns in Greece and Cyprus revolve around Turkey’s rising acceptance in Europe and the implications for regional stability. The EU-Turkey relationship is complicated by Turkey’s human rights record and security policies, and Greece is adopting a measured response amid these developments.

In recent developments, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has articulated the urgency of Turkey’s accession to the European Union during a visit from Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. He emphasized that Turkey’s full membership is pivotal for the EU’s retention of global influence. This statement reflects both Erdoğan’s assertive stance and a certain disdain towards existing EU frameworks.

Erdoğan’s push for EU membership is strategically significant amid the geopolitical shifts following Donald Trump’s resurgence on the global stage. European states are adjusting to new realities as Turkey positions itself as an influential actor at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, particularly in light of Washington’s fluctuating priorities and the potential power vacuum this creates.

The timing of Erdoğan’s assertions is deliberate, coinciding with a U.S. withdrawal from its role in Western security. Europe’s endeavor to create an alternative security framework opens doors for other nations, including Turkey. Erdoğan’s ambitions span beyond regional politics, as he seeks influential roles in global matters including the Ukraine conflict and advocating for a Muslim nation’s representation on the UN Security Council.

While Erdoğan’s claim that Turkey could aid the EU against geopolitical obscurity is viewed as audacious, it has not been entirely dismissed. Former Turkish diplomat Sinan Ülgen noted the impossibility of excluding Turkey any longer, as NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte urged EU nations to strengthen ties with Turkey for military support. However, the EU’s focus does not align with forming a military alliance and is hindered by Turkey’s human rights record and legal shortcomings.

Complicated security policies further inhibit deeper EU-Turkey relations, given unresolved disputes over Cyprus and escalating tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. Additionally, Turkey’s cooperation with Russia raises concerns regarding its reliability as a European partner, especially with Russia being a primary security focus for Europe.

The ongoing dynamics between Turkey and the EU hold substantial implications for Greece and Cyprus, as their EU membership has historically been leveraged for addressing disputes with Turkey. Both nations are closely monitoring the evolving relationship, particularly Turkey’s increasing prominence in European discussions and its ramifications on regional stability.

Greece expresses apprehension regarding Turkey’s growing acceptance within influential European circles. Concerningly, this situation may coincide with a broader erosion of established international norms. In Greece, worries are rising that Erdoğan’s ambitions may parallel Trump’s disregard for international law, endangering Greek territorial integrity.

The Greek government adopts a cautious approach, with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis reassuring the public about the unwavering U.S. support for Greece. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Georgios Gerapetritis emphasizes Greece as a stabilizing force in the troubled region, while cultivating alliances, notably with Israel, which may enhance its standing in U.S. relations.

This partnership’s military aspects could be beneficial in securing favor from the current U.S. administration, especially contrasted against Erdoğan’s connections with Hamas, which significantly hinder Turkey’s aspirations for EU accession. Dr. Ronald Meinardus from the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP) provides expert insights into these dynamics.

The pursuit of EU membership by Turkey under President Erdoğan raises significant concerns for Greece and Cyprus, reflecting anxieties over the shifting geopolitical landscape and Turkey’s growing influence. As Erdoğan pushes for a stronger role amidst evolving global orders, political and human rights obstacles remain key barriers to Turkey’s EU aspirations. Greece’s strategic alignment and cautious diplomacy highlight the complexities of these developments, particularly regarding regional stability. The situation underscores the broader implications of changing U.S. foreign policy on traditional alliances in Europe.

Original Source: www.ekathimerini.com