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European Union's Ambassador to Türkiye Thomas Hans Ossowski emphasized Türkiye's crucial diplomatic role and addressed visa concerns at an Europe Day celebration in Ankara, stating that Turkish citizens receive the second-highest number of Schengen visas after China.
Speaking at the CerModern Art Gallery event attended by Deputy Foreign Minister Levent Gumrukcu and Ankara Metropolitan Mayor Mansur Yavas, Ossowski highlighted the growing partnership between Türkiye and the European Union.
"In a world of shifting alliances and increasing uncertainties, the EU and Türkiye have chosen partnership," Ossowski said. "We stand side by side as a candidate country, as NATO allies, and as neighbors who shape peace rather than sitting on the sidelines watching."
The ambassador praised Türkiye's active mediation efforts in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, particularly its role in brokering the Black Sea Grain Agreement and facilitating prisoner exchanges. "Türkiye worked intensively and accomplished many things," Ossowski noted, adding that "Türkiye can play a constructive role in the Black Sea."
Addressing questions about Schengen visas, Ossowski acknowledged that consulates are working diligently to meet high demand but expressed concern about fraudulent applications. He added that travel agencies are misleading citizens and emphasized that Turkish authorities should take action against businesses engaged in such practices.
"Turkish citizens receive the second-highest number of Schengen visas after China," Ossowski stated. "Visa-free travel will be possible when Türkiye meets the agreed criteria, as is the case with all candidate countries."
The ambassador outlined the economic relationship between the EU and Türkiye, describing the EU as "Türkiye's largest trading partner, largest foreign direct investor, and largest donor in financial cooperation."
Ossowski celebrated the cultural roots connecting Europe and Türkiye, saying, "We gathered around the idea that shared identity overcomes divisions. We remembered that identity is not a wall but a bridge."
He emphasized increasing people-to-people connections, noting more Turkish students are studying at European universities and more Turkish researchers are working in European institutes and high-tech companies.
"Every day we strengthen our exchanges, our joint projects, and the inspiration we give to each other," Ossowski concluded.
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