J. Borrell: We could be stronger if we joined forces

EU High Representative Josep Borrell, speaking at a forum in Antalya, Turkey, noted that EU autonomy was not limited to the military. “Autonomy means not so much dependence,” he said, stressing the need for the EU to end its dependence on Russian gas. Josef Borrell also said that “strategic autonomy has nothing to do with building a European military alliance and seceding from NATO. NATO is and will remain the way to ensure territorial defense in Europe. For all its member states.” EU”.

“At the same time, our Union in the Treaties makes it clear that we could be stronger if we join forces on the military side and by doing so we strengthen NATO. There is no contradiction, it is a matter of complementarity,” he said.

Regarding Ukraine’s candidate status, the High Representative noted that “membership is not decided overnight by a political decision”, explaining that there is a specific procedure. He stressed, however, that “the recognition of Ukraine as a member of the European family is the starting point of the process.”

Asked about Turkey’s accession process, Mr. Borrell said that “the situation is much better now, but in the last two years we have had some difficulties in our relationship with Turkey, which are well known.” The EU High Representative said that “at this very moment, with the war in Ukraine, Turkey can become a country with much more influence” and noted that “Russia can meet. It has already happened and I hope they continue to do so.”

Source: AMPE

Source: Capital

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