ReShape Europe

Panel Discussion on Future EU-Turkey Relations

On 9th May 2023, FNF Turkey and the Economic Development Foundation (IKV) organized a panel discussion to commemorate Europe Day and foster dialogue on the future relations between the EU and Turkey. The event aimed to provide a platform for discussions surrounding the duration of the progressing Europe-Turkey relations after the upcoming election and the potential outcomes at various stages.

The panel commenced with a speech by Beate Apelt, the Director of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation in Turkey, setting the tone for the day's discussions. Ambassador Mehmet Kemal Bozay, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey and Head of EU Affairs, followed with a speech that appropriately acknowledged the significance of the occasion.

Ayhan Zeytinoğlu, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Economic Development Foundation (IKV), delivered a speech titled "Relations with Europe from Past to Present," emphasizing the importance of Turkey-European Union relations. The panelists engaged in a comprehensive discussion on the anticipated changes in the economic, political, and social spheres of EU-Turkey relations following the upcoming election. Key focal points included the consolidation of relations and the impact of the newly elected presidential candidate.

The panel talked about how EU will transform itself during the challenges of new era after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. They also talked about how Ukraine’s application to be a member of European Union will affect Turkey’s candidacy and whether if there is a possibility to consider new membership types and if there is a need for a change in TFEU and TEU.

The panel culminated in a question and answer session, where participants had the opportunity to address their queries to the panelists. The event, supported financially by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation and the Economic Development Foundation (IKV), aimed to shed light on the historical context of Turkey-EU studies, explore strategies for shaping future relations, evaluate the influence of global crises on these relations, and propose actionable steps for Turkey's post-election period to overcome challenges.

Overall, the panel discussion provided valuable insights into the complex dynamics between the EU and Turkey, offering a platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas. By addressing critical aspects such as the election's impact on EU-Turkey relations and potential measures to be implemented, the event contributed to fostering a deeper understanding of the path ahead and promoting mutual collaboration.