The European Union and Turkey agreed to significantly deepen their strategic cooperation across a wide range of areas, a...

The European Union and Turkey agreed to significantly deepen their strategic cooperation across a wide range of areas, according to a joint statement released after talks in Ankara on June 30, 2026. The meeting brought together Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, and commissioners Marta Kos and Magnus Brunner. The two sides confirmed they want to strengthen ties in trade, security, migration, energy, transport, and foreign policy. They also agreed that Turkey's possible participation in the Single Euro Payments Area, known as SEPA, would be mutually beneficial, and reaffirmed their intent to push forward the modernization of the EU-Turkey Customs Union. On migration, both sides acknowledged that current geopolitical conditions could trigger new population movements. They pledged to cooperate on border management and combating illegal smuggling networks, and also discussed progress on the Visa Liberalization Dialogue for Turkish citizens. The joint statement included references to the Cyprus issue. Both sides said they support the UN Secretary-General's efforts to find a solution, though the EU side also stressed the need for Turkey to strengthen the rule of law, protect fundamental rights, and uphold democratic standards as part of the EU accession process. On foreign policy, both sides exchanged views on Ukraine, Russia, the Middle East, Africa, and the South Caucasus. They agreed that the EU and Turkey share a commitment to defending Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and to supporting a just and lasting peace based on international law. Both sides agreed to meet again before the end of 2026 for further high-level dialogue rounds covering economy, trade, migration, security, health, science and innovation, and agriculture. The European Investment Bank's gradual resumption of activities in Turkey was also welcomed. #EUTurkey #Cyprus #Geopolitics