EU foreign policy chief sees Türkiye as ‘partner of strategic importance’ ahead of visit

The European Union’s top diplomat has characterized Türkiye as a “partner of strategic importance” ahead of a significant diplomatic visit to Ankara, highlighting opportunities for expanded cooperation while acknowledging persistent challenges in the relationship.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, speaking to Anadolu Agency before her Friday visit—the first such high-level engagement since 2022—outlined an ambitious agenda covering regional security, energy partnerships, and broader geopolitical concerns.

Revitalizing EU-Türkiye relations

“It’s high time to visit Türkiye and I will do it really in the first part of my mandate,” Kallas said, emphasizing the urgency of strengthening bilateral ties. “We have many issues. So we can discuss regional security and also different cooperation points like energy cooperation.”

While affirming Türkiye’s continued status as an EU candidate country, Kallas acknowledged significant obstacles in the accession process. The diplomatic relationship faces several challenges, including concerns about Cyprus, human rights and the rule of law, which remain key points of discussion between the two parties.

EU’s Syria policy, sanctions relief

In addressing regional priorities, Kallas revealed a potentially significant shift in the EU’s approach to Syria. The bloc is considering a measured easing of sanctions on Syria’s new administration, contingent upon demonstrable progress.

“We are cautiously optimistic and willing to discuss the relief of sanctions, but do it by a step-by-step approach,” Kallas explained.

She indicated that specific measures would be discussed at the upcoming Foreign Affairs Council meeting on Jan. 27, particularly focusing on essential services like banking access.

“If they do the right things, we are willing to take steps on our side,” she said while warning that regression could trigger renewed restrictions.

The EU’s position emphasizes the importance of inclusive governance and stability in Syria, aligning with regional stakeholders’ interests, including Türkiye’s.

Gaza crisis, peace in Middle East

The conversation also addressed the ongoing situation in Gaza, where the EU has increased humanitarian aid while maintaining diplomatic engagement with both Israeli and Palestinian authorities.

Kallas emphasized the EU’s commitment to a two-state solution, announcing plans for both an EU-Israel Association Council meeting and high-level political dialogue with the Palestinian Authority.

“It’s very important that we keep this two-state solution in mind,” she stated, highlighting the need to balance Israeli security concerns with Palestinian rights.

Ukraine conflict and Türkiye’s mediating role

On the Ukraine conflict, Kallas highlighted Türkiye’s unique position to influence peace efforts, particularly in relation to Russia.

“Türkiye has a very important role in pressuring Russia to have peace on the ground,” she said, emphasizing the need for coordinated international pressure to end the conflict.

The EU diplomat stressed that peace could be achieved if “Russia stops bombing Ukraine, the people, the civilian infrastructure there and withdraws its troops.”

New US administration, transatlantic relations

Addressing the transition to a second Trump administration in the United States, Kallas emphasized the importance of maintaining strong transatlantic cooperation on security, defense and economic issues.

“The US and European Union are big trading partners. Our economies are very much intertwined,” she noted, while also emphasizing the continued importance of supporting Ukraine.

She suggested that U.S. concerns about China should not overshadow the immediate threat posed by Russia’s actions in Ukraine.

As she prepared for her visit to Ankara, Kallas struck an optimistic tone about the future of EU-Türkiye relations.

“This is going to show that the European Union and Türkiye are partners, and we have many issues to discuss and cooperate on,” she concluded, setting the stage for what could be a significant reset in diplomatic engagement between Brussels and Ankara.