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Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus said Monday that Türkiye's full membership in the European Union would contribute more to Europe's institutional identity than to Türkiye itself.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Hungarian National Assembly Speaker Laszlo Kover during an official visit to Budapest, Kurtulmus emphasized Türkiye's dual identity.
"The Republic of Türkiye, which continues as a great state with both Eastern and European characteristics, would contribute to the EU’s institutional identity more than to Türkiye itself," Kurtulmus said.
Kurtulmus praised the close ties between Türkiye and Hungary, describing them as "excellent."
"If we were to define the relations between the two countries, the word ‘excellent’ would be appropriate," he said.
He noted that the relationship had been elevated to an enhanced strategic partnership, reinforced by 17 agreements signed at the most recent meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council.
The agreements cover defense, energy, tourism, education, and culture. Kurtulmus said cooperation in these areas would continue to grow stronger.
During the visit, Kurtulmus and Kover signed a memorandum of understanding on inter-parliamentary cooperation.
Kover highlighted the historical friendship between the two nations and said the agreement would further strengthen bilateral ties. Kurtulmus also invited Kover to attend the 152nd General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, scheduled to be held in Istanbul in April.
He emphasized that both Türkiye and Hungary strive to promote peace, stability and friendship in their respective regions and globally. He concluded his remarks by saying: “Long live Türkiye-Hungary friendship and brotherhood.”
Kurtulmus warned of global instability, citing ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
"One of them is the war and conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has continued for three years. The world and the region must strive to find a just and lasting peace as soon as possible," he said.
He also condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza. "We are witnessing the greatest massacre and genocide of modern times. Ending this genocide immediately is the common responsibility of all humanity," he said.
Kurtulmus added that unresolved conflicts could trigger new regional and global crises.
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