Belgian Minister Defends Turkey as Part of European Family During Economic Mission
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot concluded a five-day economic mission to Turkey, describing it as the largest such delegation ever hosted by Ankara. Nearly 400 participants from business, academia, and diplomacy, with the initial phase led by Queen Mathilde, visited Istanbul and Ankara. Prévot emphasized the strategic necessity for Europe to strengthen ties with Turkey in economic, security, and energy sectors to avoid dependence on distant continents. He advocated for modernizing the 1996 EU-Turkey customs union, proposing a 'Made with Europe' approach that includes strategic partners, despite reservations from Greece and Cyprus. While acknowledging significant differences regarding the rule of law, Prévot adopted a pragmatic stance, raising concerns without adopting a lecturing tone during meetings with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other officials. He asserted that while Turkey is not an EU member, it remains an undeniable part of the European family. The mission highlights Belgium's push for deeper regional cooperation and economic integration with Turkey, balancing political criticisms with practical diplomatic engagement.
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