27.03.2025 19:40
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Turkey could be "an actor that can contribute to a lasting peace if it wishes" due to its special position in the Black Sea in the Ukraine-Russia War. Macron expressed, "Its role in the Black Sea is a reality recognized by agreements."
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Turkey could be "an actor that can contribute to a lasting peace if it wishes" due to its special position in the Black Sea during the Ukraine-Russia War, adding, "Its role in the Black Sea is a reality recognized by agreements."
French President Emmanuel Macron made statements after the "Peace and Security for Ukraine" meeting held in Paris with the participation of about thirty countries. He expressed that Europe is at a turning point, stating, "Our goal is clear, to win, that is, to win peace. We want to place Ukraine in the best position to negotiate a solid and lasting peace."
"SANCTIONS ON RUSSIA CAN BE LIFTED AFTER PEACE IS ESTABLISHED"
Macron, who announced that France's support for Ukraine will continue, stated that European countries have launched new training programs for the Ukrainian army and that loan payments will be expedited to facilitate purchases for Ukraine, such as artillery systems.
Referring to sanctions against Russia, Macron said, "It is not the time to lift the sanctions. We must maintain economic pressure, and we will continue to mobilize on this issue," emphasizing that the lifting of sanctions can only be evaluated "after peace is established."
Macron stated that Europe needs to develop stronger cooperation for its own security, indicating that Europe must act on its own behalf, while noting that the U.S. is a reliable ally but that European and U.S. interests are not the same.
CALL TO CHINA
Calling on Chinese President Xi Jinping, Macron said, "I want President Xi to take a fully active role in helping us build this solid and lasting peace," stating that China is a legitimate actor in this process due to its permanent membership in the UN Security Council and previous peace initiatives.
"TURKEY COULD BE INFLUENTIAL IN ENDING THE WAR"
Pointing out that Turkey could be influential in ending the Russia-Ukraine War, Macron said, "First of all, I want to express that we respect Turkey. It is a great country and has the potential to play an important role in the security and stability of our continent, staying true to its own history."
Macron conveyed that dialogue with Turkey has always continued, stating, "We have always made an effort to maintain dialogue with Ankara, even if it is to clarify our differences." He noted that he has been in regular contact with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in recent months, saying, "I even spoke with him on the way to Washington DC to meet with President Trump on February 24."
EMPHASIS ON TURKEY FOR THE BLACK SEA
Highlighting Turkey's special role in the Black Sea, Macron stated that Turkey is a key actor regarding Ukraine, saying, "In terms of Ukraine, there is a role for Turkey to play. If it wishes, it could be an actor that can contribute to this lasting peace."
Macron also mentioned Turkey's contribution to grain exports, stating, "We must not forget Turkey; it helped to facilitate the release of grain exports. Its role in the Black Sea is a reality recognized by agreements."