EU evaluates scenario of Turkey's potential BRICS membership: Turkey has the right to make decisions that are best for itself

A statement has come from the European Union (EU) regarding claims that Turkey has applied to join BRICS. European Commission Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Peter Stano emphasized that despite the application, Ankara's status as an EU candidate country will continue.

As reported by Sputnik, Stano was asked during a press conference in Brussels about claims in the US press regarding Turkey's application for BRICS membership. Responding that Turkey, like any other country, can decide what is better for itself, form alliances, and cooperate, Stano said, "As for Turkey-EU relations, Turkey is a candidate country for EU membership. We have a Customs Union and very good trade relations."

'ALL POLICIES MUST BE ALIGNED WITH EU POLICIES'

Noting that candidate countries must respect the EU's values and obligations under treaties, Stano stated, "We expect candidate countries to share the EU's values and align their foreign policies with ours." Stano added that countries accepted for EU membership must also bring all their policies, including those applied under trade agreements, into full compliance with EU policies.

WHAT HAPPENED

Yesterday, claims appeared in the American press that Turkey had applied for membership to join BRICS. It was noted that the claim surfaced during the BRICS presidency of Russia, which has close relations with Turkey. Recently, Azerbaijan officially applied for BRICS membership following meetings between Russian leader Putin and Azerbaijani President Aliyev in Baku.

Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov stated that President Erdoğan had accepted the Russian side's invitation to attend the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan. Speaking to the Russian press, Ushakov said, "The offer was conveyed to the Turkish side and Erdoğan accepted." The 16th BRICS Summit, hosted by the current chair Russia, will be held in Kazan on October 22-24.