Türkiye is indispensable for EU: Former Spanish FM Laya

Türkiye remains a crucial global actor for the European Union, former Spanish Foreign Minister Arancha Gonzalez Laya said Thursday during a panel discussion in Madrid.

Türkiye’s growing global role

Speaking at the “Breakup or Reform: European Democracies Facing a Fragmented World” panel hosted by Esade Business School, Laya emphasized Türkiye’s rising influence on the world stage.

“In a time when the U.S., Russia, and China are dominant global actors, Türkiye must also be acknowledged,” she said. “Türkiye is advancing well as a global actor and remains indispensable for the E.U.”

Need for EU reforms

Laya, who currently serves as the Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA), warned that the E.U. is losing strength and must implement economic reforms to ensure growth.

“We need reforms in the economy, finance, and defense, but these must be based on democracy because that is what differentiates us from other countries,” she said.

She stressed that for reforms to take place, the E.U. must possess the political energy, determination, and ability to act quickly.

Laya also noted that European politics is currently shaped by the balance between pro-European forces and nationalist movements, adding that while most countries support European integration, nationalist governments in some E.U. states, including Italy, present a challenge that requires political engagement.

Concerns over US politics

Laya expressed concern over the political direction of the U.S., particularly under President Donald Trump, stating that his policies could undermine democracy.

“The U.S. is going through a period of rupture under Trump. The far right and tech companies are dismantling democratic institutions, and this movement is also targeting the E.U.,” she said.

Trump’s presidency a challenge for EU, US: Solana

The panel also featured former NATO Secretary-General and ex-Spanish Foreign Minister Javier Solana, who shared his views on Trump’s influence on transatlantic relations.

“I was born in 1942, entered politics after Franco’s death, and have seen many U.S. presidents. But Trump is different. Unfortunately, we will face a difficult period for both the E.U. and the U.S.,” Solana stated.

He criticized Trump’s remark that “the European Union was established to destroy the U.S.,” calling it “completely incorrect.”

Solana also condemned Trump’s endorsement of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, stating: “Americans once fought against the ideology promoted by AfD, and now Trump is advocating for them.”

He emphasized concerns about younger generations and the need for continuous political engagement to counter rising nationalist sentiments.