Erdoğan declares Türkiye’s “Fully prepared” for EU membership

By Alpaslan Düven – London

Ankara,– In a forceful address today, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan declared that “Turkey is completely prepared for full membership in the European Union”, urging immediate progress in the stalled accession talks

.Speaking to reporters via TRT Haber, Erdoğan emphasized that political hurdles must be removed “without a single day’s delay”, framing Türkiye as the “last exit before the bridge” and a dynamic, problem-solving partner capable of addressing the EU’s internal divisions and continental challenges

He also underlined Türkiye’s broader strategic value—highlighting its role in European security, reference to military investments and regional diplomacy—and urged the EU to integrate Ankara as a full-fledged partner across defence mechanisms like the European Peace Facility

Yet, Erdoğan acknowledged persistent obstacles: EU criticism over Turkey’s democratic backsliding, rule of law concerns, and the contentious Cyprus dispute remain significant barriers

Turkey formally applied for EU membership in 1987 and entered negotiations in 2005. However, talks have stalled since 2016 amid concerns about democracy and human rights

.