By Janet Ekstract
İSTANBUL (GOLDEN HORN AGENCY)- In a press conference after their meeting on Tuesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte emphasized the importance of Dutch-Turkish ties with Rutte commenting those ties between the two countries go back “400 years.” Rutte said: “This visit has deepened our relations.”
Though the meeting between the two leaders did focus on bilateral ties, a major focus for both was the war in Ukraine. Rutte praised Turkey’s diplomatic efforts while Erdogan reiterated his calls in negotiations to “deescalate.” Rutte commented that in their meeting both leaders agreed they condemn Russia’s war on Ukraine. Erdogan said Turkish diplomatic efforts will continue in an attempt to reach a ceasefire despite difficulties. Rutte said he’s glad Turkey has an open channel of communication with both Zelensky and Putin – praising Turkey for its lead in diplomacy.
In terms of bilateral ties and Turkey:s bid for EU membership, Erdogan said: “Regional relations with the EU should be improved,” He added that if Turkey becomes an EU member, Turkey.will be a “valuable” addition to the EU. The Dutch prime minister said: “We are key economic partners” and reiterated: “The Netherlands is the biggest foreign investor in Turkey.”
The two leaders spoke about their current $10 billion in trade that they plan to increase to $15 and then $20 billion. Rutte said talks will continue with regard to Turkey’s EU membership and that talks regarding the Customs Union will take place soon.
Meanwhile, on the issue of Ukraine, Rutte said: “Turkey is playing a key role” and emphasized “Turkey is taking its responsibility and more.” Rutte expressed his gratitude to Erdogan for Turkey’s willingness to take in so many refugees – pointing out: You still take in more refugees than anywhere in the world.”
When asked by a journalist if Rutte thinks Turkey should declare sanctions on Russia, the Dutch prime minister’s answer defended Turkey; “Turkey is doing everything it can do.” He added:”It’s one of the few lines we have open, we support it.” Rutte reminded everyone that due to Turkey’s close proximity to Russia and Ukraine that it is in a “special position.” Rutte explained the reason NATO said a no-fly zone is not possible is because “it would bring us in direct confrontation between NATO and Russia.” Erdogan added: “We have to show our full solidarity as NATO states.”
When the Turkish leader was asked about a possible threat to Turkey if Russia moves on Odessa, he said: “The National Defense Minister is handling it, you should have no concern.” And Erdogan concluded: “We hope we have a world where none of this takes place and build a world where peace prevails.” Both leaders will meet again at the NATO summit on Thursday in Brussels.
