Erdogan: EU will not retain its power without Turkey

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan issued a statement on Sunday that the European Union (EU) will not be able to maintain its power without Ankara's support, the Turkish leader said in a statement.

“The European Union needs new approaches and structural transformations, especially with regard to the decision-making mechanism. It is obvious that without the support and contribution of Turkey, the EU will not be able to maintain its power, the statement reads.

According to Erdogan, Turkey, despite the policy of double standards and obstacles, remains determined to achieve the strategic goal of joining the EU.

On July 6, 2017, the European Parliament adopted a resolution calling on the EU and EC to suspend talks on Turkey's accession until its authorities amend the constitution. In April 2017, a referendum was held on Turkish constitutional reform, which significantly expanded presidential powers.

Over the past four years, Brussels and the EU member states at different levels have repeatedly stated that Turkey's actions contribute to the distance from the European community and called on Ankara to determine its position.