Macron's first reaction to the arrest of Ekrem İmamoğlu

French President Emmanuel Macron has made his first high-level statement following the arrest of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. Emphasizing that Turkey, which plays a critical role in Europe's security, must remain loyal to democratic values and commitments, Macron expressed regret over the events that followed İmamoğlu's detention.

'A REGRETTABLE VIOLATION'

In a statement made after his summit with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Macron drew attention to the pressure on opposition figures and civil society in Turkey. The French President said, "The systematic prosecution of opposition figures and members of civil society, the restriction of freedoms, and the detention and arrest of the Mayor of Istanbul are nothing but a regrettable violation."

Macron continued his remarks as follows:

“Turkey needs Europe, and Europe, along with its security responsibilities, wants to see a Turkey that follows its democratic path. Turkey must continue to follow democratic principles by remaining loyal to the promises it has made."

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Council of Europe had called for the release of imprisoned mayors in Turkey yesterday.