ISTANBUL: Turkey is set to participate in an informal European Union (EU) meeting in Brussels on Thursday, marking its first attendance in five years, according to a Turkish diplomatic source.
Turkey has been an EU candidate since 1999 and began membership negotiations in 2005, but the process has stalled on multiple fronts. Relations between Ankara and Brussels have been tense, with the EU relying on Turkey to manage Syrian migrants while disagreements persist over issues involving Greece and Cyprus.
The EU has also expressed concerns about Turkey's human rights practices, particularly following a failed coup attempt that led to extensive purges targeting government opponents.
The Turkish diplomatic source viewed the EU’s invitation as a sign of a desire to rekindle dialogue with Turkey. “We see this as an opportunity to revive our relations with the EU,” the source said, expressing hopes that the meeting will facilitate improved communication.
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will meet with key EU officials, including Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell and Enlargement Commissioner Oliver Varhelyi. The discussions are expected to address ways to strengthen relations amid regional and global challenges.
The EU's stance on Cyprus, which has been divided since 1974 following Turkish military action in response to a Greek-led coup, remains a contentious issue. Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has advocated for a two-state solution, while the EU favors new UN-mediated negotiations. The Turkish Cypriot Republic, declared in 1983, is recognized only by Turkey.
Fidan will also discuss potential updates to the customs union and visa regulations for Turkish citizens. Additionally, he is anticipated to have talks with Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis during the Brussels visit.
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