Poland is positioning itself as a pivotal player in the European security landscape, particularly in relation to Türkiye's potential membership in the European Union. Polish officials, including Deputy Foreign Minister Anna Radwan, have emphasized Türkiye's importance in ensuring the security of Europe, especially in the context of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
During a recent press conference in Warsaw, Radwan stated, "The EU never applies religious criteria and considers economic, political and value-related criteria when seeking a partner. Poland is doing its part in Türkiye’s EU membership process, but it takes two to tango." This statement underscores Poland's commitment to supporting Türkiye's aspirations for EU membership while also calling for reciprocal efforts from Ankara.
Poland currently holds the presidency of the EU Council, a role it is leveraging to host discussions on security cooperation among EU foreign ministers. An informal meeting is scheduled for May 7-8, 2025, where Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has been invited to participate. This inclusion is expected to highlight Türkiye's strategic relevance in shaping Europe's future security architecture.
Janusz Reiter, founder of the Center for International Studies, remarked on the shifting geopolitical dynamics following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He noted, "There is a thought of ‘How can we trust our neighboring countries?’ in terms of defense. Poland cannot manage alone if anything happens to Russia. Its defense power is not sufficient." Reiter stressed that Türkiye is a key country for the security of both the EU and Ukraine, given its significant military capabilities and geographical positioning.
With NATO's second-largest army and a crucial coastline along the Black Sea, Türkiye is increasingly viewed as a critical player in European defense strategies. Artur Kacprzyk, an analyst at the Polish Foreign Relations Institute, echoed this sentiment, describing Türkiye as vital due to its military potential and control over access to the Black Sea.
As European leaders scramble to develop new security strategies in light of the U.S. pivot in foreign policy regarding Ukraine, Ankara has been vocal about the necessity of its involvement in ensuring European defenses. Kamil Zajaczkowski, director of the Europe Center at Warsaw University, called for the establishment of a European defense policy within NATO, emphasizing that Türkiye's role will be crucial as NATO members increase their defense spending.
Moreover, Türkiye's burgeoning defense industry has gained recognition for its innovative and cost-effective military solutions. Data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) indicates that Türkiye's share of global arms exports surged by 103% from 2015-2019 to 2020-2024, elevating it to the 11th largest arms exporter worldwide. European nations, including Spain, Italy, and Portugal, have become clients of Turkish defense products, further solidifying Türkiye's position in the global arms market.
Poland has already taken tangible steps to enhance its military collaboration with Türkiye, becoming the first NATO country to sign an agreement to purchase 24 units of Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 drones in 2021. Dr. Danuta Chmielowska expressed optimism about Türkiye's EU membership, stating, "If Türkiye becomes an EU member, Poland will be very happy. Central Asian and Caucasian countries, including Türkiye, have a very important place in the EU. I believe that one day Türkiye will be a part of the EU."
Chmielowska also praised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's diplomatic efforts regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, highlighting Erdoğan's role in brokering a grain deal between the two countries during the early stages of the conflict. Ankara's proactive stance in mediating talks between Russia and Ukraine further underscores its significance in the region.
As the informal meeting of EU foreign ministers approaches, discussions are expected to focus on finding a resolution to the ongoing war in Ukraine and establishing post-war security guarantees for Kyiv. Radwan emphasized that Türkiye's input is crucial in these discussions, given its regional influence and military capabilities.
In conclusion, Poland's support for Türkiye's EU membership and its strategic role in European security reflect a broader recognition of the shifting geopolitical landscape. As the EU navigates the complexities of defense and security in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Türkiye's involvement will be vital in shaping a cohesive and effective European defense policy.
