Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has once again reiterated Ankara’s long-standing desire to become a full member of the European Union, asserting that Türkiye is the only force capable of rescuing the bloc from its looming decline. In a televised address on February 24, following a cabinet meeting in Ankara, Erdogan argued that Türkiye’s accession to the EU could serve as a “lifeline” to the bloc’s struggling economy, workforce, and political standing.

Erdogan’s remarks come at a time of increasing political turbulence within the EU. With the rise of right-wing movements, economic stagnation, and a rapidly aging population, the Turkish leader suggests that his country’s full membership could provide the stability and revitalization that Brussels desperately needs. However, despite Erdogan’s strong pitch, Türkiye’s accession to the EU remains a distant prospect, with negotiations essentially stalled since 2016.

Erdogan framed Türkiye’s EU membership as mutually beneficial, arguing that the bloc should move past its historical reluctance and recognize Türkiye’s strategic and economic contributions. He highlighted the demographic advantage that Türkiye possesses, with a young and dynamic workforce, in contrast to Europe’s rapidly aging population.

“As always, we are eager to advance our membership process based on mutual benefit and respect, with a constructive approach,” Erdogan stated. He emphasized that if the EU displayed the necessary political will, the accession process could be reinvigorated and swiftly concluded.

The Turkish........

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