turkey participation — turkey participation — Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas has indicated that there are “loopholes” which may allow Turkey to participate indirectly in the European Union’s Security Action for Europe (Safe) programme. Speaking post-cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Palmas acknowledged the “difficulties and obstacles” Turkey faces in this process but reiterated that some gaps in the regulations could pave the way for its involvement.
Turkey participation: Context of the Safe Programme
The Safe programme is designed to enhance defence capabilities across the EU and is open to all 27 member states, alongside four European Economic Area states—namely Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland—and Ukraine. Additionally, six countries that have signed common defence agreements with the EU are eligible, including Albania, Japan, Moldova, North Macedonia, South Korea, and the United Kingdom.
Statements from European Leaders
Palmas referenced remarks made by European Council President Antonio Costa during his recent visit to Cyprus. Costa maintained that the rules surrounding the Safe programme are “clear” and stated that it remains accessible to third countries that do not pose a security threat to EU member states. He emphasised, “States which attack or threaten the security of a member state cannot be allowed to use Safe.” This comment underlines the hesitance towards Turkey’s potential participation.
Turkey’s Eligibility and Challenges
While Turkey could theoretically sign an agreement analogous to that of the UK with the EU to gain access to the Safe programme, the requirement for unanimity among EU member states presents a significant hurdle. The Republic of Cyprus is expected to veto any such agreement, given its longstanding opposition to Turkey’s actions in the region.
Palmas hinted at “pressure” from NATO diplomats aimed at facilitating Turkey’s full participation, particularly following its official request to join the programme earlier this week. The Greek newspaper Kathimerini reported on Tuesday that NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has expressed support for Turkish involvement, arguing for the necessity of engagement between the EU and Turkey to strengthen NATO cooperation.
Broader Implications
Currently, 23 of the EU’s 27 members are also NATO members, making the alliance’s influence significant in EU discussions regarding defence partnerships. Palmas commented on the expectation of continued pressure from NATO to allow Turkey access to the Safe programme, stating, “We expected such pressure from NATO to give Turkey the opportunity through Safe to strengthen itself.” However, he highlighted the united front presented by Cyprus and Greece against Turkish participation, stressing that their concerns have been voiced collectively in various EU defence councils over the past year.
Cyprus and Greece’s Position
Palmas conveyed that both Cyprus and Greece have consistently opposed Turkey’s involvement in the Safe programme, citing Turkey’s historical actions in Cyprus and ongoing threats towards Greece. He noted, “Turkey is a state which has been established in Cyprus as an invader for 51 years and at the same time threatens Greece itself daily in the Aegean and in the Greek islands.” This sentiment reflects the broader apprehension held by these nations regarding Turkey’s military capabilities and intentions.
EU’s Diverse Perspectives
Despite the opposition from Cyprus and Greece, Palmas acknowledged that other EU member states may view Turkey through a different lens, particularly concerning potential defence partnerships. He stated, “The European Union may be a union of 27 member states, [but] at the same time, unfortunately, there are also bilateral and trilateral interests, whether these are economic or military-based.” He underscored the significance of Turkey as a large state with considerable military and economic resources.
Potential Loopholes in the Safe Programme
The “loophole” mentioned by Palmas could relate to a provision in the Safe programme’s regulations. It allows for common procurements involving subcontractors who are allocated between 15 per cent and 35 per cent of the contract’s value, even if they are not based in the EU or associated countries. This provision might enable Turkish manufacturers, or those from other nations, to receive funding under the Safe programme.
Funding Allocations
Recently, Cyprus secured over €1 billion in funding for military hardware through the Safe programme, with 18 other EU member states also poised to benefit from the €150 billion allocated by the European Commission this year. The ongoing discussions surrounding Turkey’s potential involvement in the programme will likely continue to be a point of contention among EU members.
