EU Foreign Relations, Policy Implementation, Economic and Monetary Integration

The European Union's Foreign Ministers are set to convene for a critical meeting today, with a focus on the current state of EU-Turkey relations and the foreign policy dimension of economic security.

The gathering comes at a time when the European Commission has repeatedly emphasised the need to address pressing issues in EU-Turkey relations, given Turkey's status as a candidate for EU membership. The EU's strategic interest in maintaining good relations with Turkey is evident, as highlighted by the recent events.

The EU's "Economic Security Strategy," presented on June 20, will undoubtedly play a role in the discussion. This strategy, based on the principle of "promote, protect, and partner," aims to ensure the EU's economic resilience and security in an increasingly interconnected world.

Germany's recently presented China Strategy is also expected to influence the discourse, as it sheds light on the role of major global powers in shaping the economic landscape.

The meeting will also see the participation of US Secretary of State Blinken, who will join for an in-depth exchange. The closer relationship between the EU and the US is evident, as both blocs strive to address global challenges together.

Beyond EU-Turkey relations and economic security, other foreign policy topics are likely to be discussed. These include the situation in the Western Balkans, the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and the joint support for Ukraine.

In addition, the EU is expected to add new listings to the existing human rights sanctions regime due to human rights violations and sexual violence against women. While the specific countries to be included in these new listings are not yet officially announced, reports suggest that countries like Afghanistan, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic may be among them.

However, it's important to note that, based on available sources, there is no official EU announcement about which countries will be newly included in future human rights sanctions lists specifically for human rights violations and sexual violence against women.

The meeting will also address the disrupted supply chains during the pandemic and Russia's weaponization of gas and oil, which are becoming increasingly security issues.

At the European Council in late June 2023, the heads of state and government of the EU asked the European Commission to present a report on Turkey's course following President Erdogan's re-election by autumn. This report will undoubtedly provide valuable insights into the current state of EU-Turkey relations.

The meeting will also see the Foreign Ministers exchanging views on the preparations for the 28th UN Climate Conference in December, at the initiative of the German-Danish friendship group for ambitious climate foreign policy.

In a world where geopolitical dynamics are constantly evolving, these discussions will undoubtedly shape the EU's foreign policy agenda in the months to come.