Press release on meeting between President Charles Michel and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan

The meeting between the President of the European Council Charles Michel, and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan took place on Wednesday 4 March 2020 in Ankara. High Representative Josep Borrell took part in the discussion.

The meeting was frank and necessary. The migration situation on the EU’s sea and land borders and the crisis in Syria were at the heart of the talks.

The President of the European Council reiterated his support to Greece, Bulgaria and Cyprus. He also acknowledged Turkey’s efforts in hosting millions of refugees. The EU-Turkey Statement remains the basis of our migration partnership. It was agreed in good faith and needs continued efforts from both sides.

Reducing the current migration tensions on the borders of Europe is essential. Europe is ready to speed up support to Syrians in Turkey and their host communities.

A sustainable cease-fire and a lasting political solution to the Syria crisis is urgently needed. All actors must respect international humanitarian law. Humanitarian access is essential and Europe is willing to provide additional assistance for those displaced in Idlib.