EU Calls on Turkey: Customs Union Modernization Linked to Progress in Cyprus Talks

Speaking at the EU-Turkey Business Summit in Brussels, organized jointly by the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEİK) and the European Business Summit (EBS), Koopman highlighted the intertwined nature of the Turkish and EU economies as well as the historical ties between the two sides.

Key Role in Regional Stability

Koopman described Turkey as a candidate country to the EU, a NATO member, and a crucial partner in many areas of trade and mutual interest. He added that Turkey’s contributions to migration management and counter-terrorism make it a reliable partner, while its geographic and strategic position gives it a central role in regional issues, including Syria, the war in Ukraine, and sustainable peace in the South Caucasus.

Customs Union Modernization Conditional on Cyprus Talks

Koopman stressed that work on modernizing the EU-Turkey Customs Union remains important. “If constructive engagement continues and we see progress toward the resumption of Cyprus negotiations, work on the Customs Union’s modernization will also resume. This will, of course, help reshape the full potential of EU-Turkey relations,” he said.

Economic and Political Cooperation

Koopman also highlighted the importance of dialogue between Turkey and the EU, noting that there is considerable potential to deepen cooperation, particularly in economic matters. He emphasized predictability and reliability for the business community and stressed that upholding the highest democratic standards in Turkey remains vital.

“Europe is not just a political project. It is a shared vision of coexistence, prosperity, and peace. Turkey, with its historical legacy and dynamism, is an inseparable part of this vision,” Koopman concluded.