The spokesman stressed that Ankara must, among other things, comply with its obligations under trade agreements with the European Union.
BRICS is a political and economic agreement originally concluded in 2009 by Brazil, India, Russia and China and expanded this year to include Ethiopia, Iran, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. A few months ago, Ankara also officially applied to join the group, as media reported it wants to establish relations with new partners and is already tired of the prolonged accession process with the European Union.
Turkey‘s desire to join BRICS was commented on during a briefing by the EC spokesman, who emphasized that Turkey — like any other country — has the right to decide what is best for it. However, Stano reminded that when it comes to relations with the European Union, Turkey is still a candidate country, which means “certain limitations” for it.
Asked by journalists whether the “limitations” related to Turkey’s EU candidacy do not rule out the country’s membership in BRICS, Stano said that the EU expects all candidate countries, not only Turkey, to unambiguously support EU values and respect the obligations arising from relevant trade agreements and consistent with the EU’s common security policy.
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“These are significant signals regarding common values and interests and the strategic orientation of the candidate countries. Upon accession to the EU, candidate countries must adapt everything, including trade agreements, to the standards and principles of the Union,” Stano said. As he emphasized, the EU and Turkey are currently connected by, among other things, a customs union and very good trade regulations, which are beneficial to Ankara. “One very important thing should be added: BRICS and the EU are completely different organizations, both in terms of goals and structure, as well as organizational principles,” the spokesman emphasized.
Turkey has been an associate member of the European Economic Community since 1963, and applied for membership in 1987. It was officially recognised as an EU candidate in 1999, but negotiations did not begin until 2005. So far, progress in the talks has been slow, with 16 of 35 negotiating chapters opened and only one concluded. After the failed coup in Turkey in July 2016 and the government’s crackdown in Ankara, negotiations were frozen. No new negotiation chapter has been opened since then.
Introduction
Turkey has found itself at a crossroads in its international relations as it expresses interest in joining BRICS, the economic bloc originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, and China. With recent expansions to include nations like Ethiopia, Iran, Egypt, and the UAE, Turkey’s application signals a significant shift in its diplomatic pursuits. However, this aspiration raises important questions about Turkey’s compliance with its obligations under existing trade agreements with the European Union (EU). This article delves into Turkey’s motivations, the implications of its BRICS ambitions, and the importance of adhering to EU commitments.
Turkey’s Interest in BRICS: A Strategic Shift
The impetus behind Turkey’s application to join BRICS stems from its desire to forge new partnerships and diversify its economic interactions. Reporting indicates that Turkey is growing weary of the slow and arduous process of EU accession, which has spanned decades without a definitive outcome. The welcoming nature of BRICS, which operates on a more flexible political and economic framework, may offer Turkey a perceived opportunity to align itself with emerging markets and enhance its geopolitical standing.
Balancing Act: EU Obligations vs. BRICS Aspirations
During a recent briefing, European Commission spokesman, Peter Stano, underscored that while Turkey has the autonomy to select its preferred alliances, it must remain cognizant of its candidacy status within the EU. Turkey’s aspiration to join BRICS does not exempt it from adhering to the obligations that accompany its existing trade agreements with the EU. Stano emphasized that these obligations apply universally to all candidate countries, necessitating a commitment to EU values and compliance with relevant agreements.
Trade Agreements: The EU-Turkey Relationship
The EU and Turkey share a customs union that fosters substantial trade relations. This partnership has often been considered beneficial for Turkey, providing access to European markets. However, as Turkey explores new alliances like BRICS, it must navigate the complexities involved with its EU commitments. Any shift towards BRICS must not compromise its obligations toward the EU, particularly concerning trade regulations and policies that align with European standards.
The Dichotomy of BRICS and EU
Stano made it clear that BRICS and the EU serve fundamentally distinct purposes. The EU is built on a foundation of shared values and a common set of principles that govern its member states. In contrast, BRICS is more focused on economic cooperation and strategic partnerships without the stringent political alignment required by the EU.
As Turkey moves towards a potential BRICS membership, it must understand the implications this may have on its existing ties with the EU. It is imperative for candidate countries like Turkey to adapt their policies, including trade agreements, to align with EU norms if they wish to pursue membership.
Conclusion
Turkey’s ambition to join BRICS represents a significant strategic pivot; however, it must tread carefully to maintain its relationship with the EU. The balance between enhancing economic ties through BRICS and complying with EU obligations will define Turkey’s future in international diplomacy. As Turkey navigates this intricate landscape, the need for clear communication and adherence to commitments under trade agreements will be crucial in preserving its position as a candidate country for EU membership.
Turkey’s aspirations highlight the importance of balancing new alliances with longstanding commitments, a challenge that will require meticulous attention in an increasingly multipolar world.
