Main opposition’s Ozel criticizes EU visa restrictions, calls for stronger Türkiye-EU relations

Ozgur Ozel, the leader of Türkiye’s main opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), addressed the Socialist Group meeting in the European Parliament, criticizing the unjust visa restrictions imposed on Türkiye’s youth, academics, businesspeople, and patients.

He emphasized Türkiye is a powerful country with a population of 86 million.

Europe should not perceive Türkiye as a country defined by one person or one political party.

Ozgur Ozel, the leader of the Republican People’s Party

Ozel also remarked: “The European Union should not reduce its relationship with Türkiye to migrant bargaining, nor should it view Türkiye as a repository for migrants beyond its borders.”

CHP leader calls for a comprehensive Türkiye-EU relationship

Ozel made these comments while speaking at the Socialists and Democrats (S&D) group meeting in Brussels, the capital of Belgium.

During his speech, he addressed the strained relationship between Türkiye and the European Union, emphasizing that the EU should not treat Türkiye solely in the context of migration.

He argued Türkiye’s geopolitical importance has grown, especially given the global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.

Reflecting on the recent diplomatic strain, Ozel criticized the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s decision not to meet with the CHP during her recent visit to Ankara.

He called her stance “a significant institutional risk” and “inconsistent,” particularly when von der Leyen reportedly suggested that she would wait for Türkiye’s general elections to be concluded before engaging with him.

Call for dialogue, cooperation amid global challenges

Ozel also pointed out the increasing prevalence of authoritarian and populist leaders who are targeting institutions globally.

“We are in a period where all political actors, movements, and parties fighting for full democracy should engage in dialogue and solidarity,” he said, stressing the importance of cooperation in the face of rising populism and undermined democratic norms.

He reaffirmed the CHP’s commitment to defending democracy, rule of law, and justice, pointing out that Türkiye’s struggle for these values aligns with both the party’s founding principles and the EU’s common values.

Importance of a multidimensional Türkiye-EU relationship

The CHP leader stressed that Türkiye-EU relations must remain multifaceted, including humanitarian ties, trade, investment, tourism, education, regional security, and defense cooperation.

He highlighted that recent global conditions have made defense collaboration between Türkiye and the EU more important than ever.

Ozel emphasized the need to prioritize democratic values over short-term political pragmatism, stating that democracy should not be seen as an alternative to stability and that human rights should not be sacrificed for security concerns.

EU membership, public support in Türkiye

Ozel also discussed the EU accession process, noting that CHP has consistently supported Türkiye’s full membership in the EU.

He pointed out that, despite past crises in relations, support for EU membership has significantly increased, with recent polls showing 66% of Turkish citizens, especially young people, favoring EU membership.

He also responded to the EU’s approach, stressing that Türkiye should not be treated merely as a source of migrants.

Türkiye should not be seen as a country holding back large-scale migration from the East in exchange for financial aid and political support from the West.

Ozgur Ozel, the leader of the Republican People’s Party

Stronger Türkiye, EU relationship for mutual benefit

Ozel argued that Türkiye’s strategic importance has only grown as global power dynamics shift, pointing out that Türkiye’s democratic, stable, and predictable nature should be seen as an asset to the EU.

He emphasized that Türkiye’s membership in the EU would be beneficial for both sides, and Türkiye’s strong democratic traditions and vibrant civil society make it a valuable partner.

Visa restrictions must end

Ozel also took issue with the unfair visa restrictions placed on Türkiye’s citizens, particularly targeting the youth, academics, entrepreneurs, and patients.

He highlighted Türkiye is a powerful country, and such restrictions undermine the relationship between Türkiye and Europe.

Pre-election discussions, future leadership

Turning to domestic politics, Ozel announced CHP will hold a primary on March 23 to select the party’s candidate for president.

He noted that Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu’s candidacy would become official after this process.

During his visit to Brussels, Ozel met with various European leaders, including European Parliament Turkish Rapporteur Nacho Sanchez Amor, European Parliament Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman David McAllister, and several other political figures.

Ozel’s diplomatic meetings and political message underscore the growing importance of a balanced, principle-based relationship between Türkiye and the EU, with a focus on democratic values, stability, and cooperation in the face of global challenges.