Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has once again spoken out against Islamophobia and racism in the West. Erdogan complained that the European Union (EU) has maintained silence, setting aside important issues such as establishing a common immigration policy, xenophobia or foreign-fear, and Islamophobia or Islam-fear.

They have not taken any significant steps in these important matters. But Turkey is a country where there is no animosity, no fear of foreigners or lack of security. Turkish law stipulates strict measures against any form of hatred. Turkey is a candidate country for EU membership. As president, Erdogan said Turkey was continuing to negotiate with the bloc (EU) on supply chains, immigration, defense, xenophobia and Islamophobia, health and energy. He said that Turkey has a role to play in resolving any issue.

The EU’s relationship with Ankara must move forward. In his annual meeting with the ambassadors of EU member states, Erdogan said that in the new year, the European Union should move away from its “short-sightedness” with Turkey and work more boldly to improve relations with Ankara. President Erdogan also accused the alliance of trying to sour relations between the EU and Turkey on the pretext of solidarity. He said the EU must work against such practices.

He added that “Turkey is working to establish a diplomatic relationship through negotiations.” In addition to high-level visits and discussions, we have participated in high-level dialogues on climate change, security, migration and healthcare. However, Erdogan said that despite the positive steps taken by Turkey, there was no response from the European Union./IT