FM Fidan discusses migration, visa with EU Commissioner

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan highlighted ongoing discussions between Türkiye and the EU aimed at enhancing cooperation in handling irregular migration during a meeting with EU Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi.

“There is a mechanism between the EU and Türkiye on irregular migration, and we have discussed how to better cooperate on this issue,” Fidan remarked.

Visa hurdles in focus

Regarding EU visas for Turkish citizens, Minister Fidan emphasized the need for a more streamlined process. “Recently, there have been visa issues with EU countries, and we’re in talks with our European counterparts on this matter,” he stated.

“The issue of visa facilitation is important. There have been problems with visas because the EU could not compensate for its lack of capacity in migration, security and the post-COVID-19 period. We have been negotiating this for a long time. We have been discussing visa facilitation, especially for our businessmen and students, and increasing the speed of visas,” Fidan added.

EU reaffirms commitment to Türkiye

On the other hand, EU Commissioner Varhelyi said: “I would like to assure Türkiye and the minister. We have re-committed to work towards revitalizing our relations. We see Türkiye as a candidate country, a key partner and an important NATO ally. So it is more essential than ever that we work together.”

Commissioner Varhelyi emphasized the EU’s commitment to dialogue with Türkiye on the Customs Union, noting progress in overcoming challenges. “We have overcome a significant amount of problems regarding the Customs Union with Türkiye,” Varhelyi remarked.

Record trade, investment plans: $2.6B direct investment

Highlighting economic cooperation, Varhelyi noted that 2023 saw a record in trade between the EU and Türkiye. He also announced the EU’s aim to mobilize €2.4 billion ($2.6 billion) of direct investment as part of the EU-Türkiye Investment Platform, indicating the EU’s commitment to fostering economic ties with Türkiye.

Stating that the two sides will come together more often, Varhelyi said: “Both sides recognize that they need each other. Therefore, high-level dialogues will start. We will meet more regularly and we will be able to move things forward faster.”