After serving as the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Directorate for EU Affairs for 4.5 years in Ankara, I am very happy to be re-appointed as the Permanent Delegate of Türkiye to the EU in Brussels.

The Republic of Türkiye, which celebrated its centenary in 2023, is a part of Europe. Our centuries-old multidimensional relations with the European continent have turned into an association as a result of the Ankara (Association) Agreement signed with the European Economic Community in 1963. Over the years, Türkiye and the EU have entered into a Customs Union relationship; following our application for the membership to the EU Türkiye obtained candidate country status and membership negotiations started in 2005.

Despite various difficulties and obstacles, Türkiye is determined to become a member of the EU. Membership to the EU, which is our largest trade partner with a trade volume of around 200 billion Euros and where more than 7 million of Turkish citizens or people with Turkish origin live, is one of the strategic priorities of our foreign policy.

Our goal of membership to the EU coincides with our goals of raising the living standards of our citizens in all areas, protecting fundamental rights and freedoms at the highest level, and reaching Türkiye's deserved place in its region and beyond.

Türkiye which has had a decisive place in the political, economic and cultural development of Europe throughout history and has institutionalized its integration with Europe in many areas from security to economy, from sports to culture and art, will continue to contribute to ensuring security and strengthening stability and prosperity in Europe and the world.

Türkiye, by providing solutions to various challenges, which have shaped the international geopolitics in recent years ranging from global pandemic to climate change, from wars in our common geography to the irregular migration crisis, from energy and food supply security to economic recessions, has become a key country, especially for Europe. Therefore, a strong Türkiye-EU cooperation and ultimately Turkish membership to the EU is a valuable opportunity that is in the interest of all parties that should start to yield common benefits as soon as possible. Goals on the EU's agenda such as the green and digital transitions, increasing competitiveness and prosperity, and deepening the Single Market will be achieved with a greater success with the contribution and cooperation of our country.

In this environment where the radical transformation in our region and at the international level once again reminds us of the importance of Türkiye-EU togetherness, we will continue our endeavours to remove the political obstacles that prevent our relations from reaching the point they deserve. Our expectation is that the EU membership process, which Türkiye continues with perseverance and determination, should be encouraged with a constructive approach and, the accession perspective should be revitalized.

After the earthquake disaster in February 2023, the rapid and comprehensive support and solidarity shown by the EU was received with gratitude in our country. The EU Civil Protection Mechanism, of which Türkiye is also a member, constitutes one of the most concrete examples of our solidarity and association. I hope that the constructive dialogue, friendship and solidarity that emerged after this devastating disaster will also contribute to the revitalization of Türkiye-EU relations with a positive agenda.

Considering its unique features, Türkiye's membership to the EU is not an easy process for either of the parties. But when it is realized, it will be the most valuable membership that will make a difference in the EU and beyond.

In this process, it is important to understand some of the concerns and prejudices that the peoples of Türkiye and EU might have, regarding our country's membership, and especially to explain well the importance of Türkiye-EU togetherness to the EU public. In this context, our efforts to implement our European Union Communication Strategy (EUCS/ABİS) towards both the EU and our country will continue with the broadest participation.

In addition, within the scope of the Union Programs in which Türkiye participates, obtaining concrete contributions to Türkiye-EU relations from all stakeholders, especially scientists, academics, young people and students is of utmost importance.

While carrying out my duty in Brussels, I aim to work in effective cooperation with public institutions, universities, civil society and business world as the participation and contribution of all segments of our society and our citizens to this important process of progress is critical. I would like to say that our Permanent Delegation is ready to provide all kinds of support in this process.

Yours sincerely,

Faruk Kaymakcı

Ambassador

Permanent Delegate of the Republic of Türkiye to the European Union