Türkiye is a key strategic partner of the EU on issues such as climate, migration, security, counter-terrorism and the economy. Türkiye's involvement with European integration dates back to 1959 and includes the Ankara Association Agreement (1963) for the progressive establishment of a Customs Union (ultimately set up in 1995).

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The Delegation of the European Union to Türkiye seeks to meet the needs that rise from the intense and multidimensional ties, with around 180 Turkish and European Union experts working together to carry out this mission. Ever since Türkiye was declared an accession candidate by the European Council in December 1999, the relationship between Ankara and Brussels has constantly been developing.

In March 2021, the European Council opened what should be a new chapter in EU-Turkey relations. EU leaders are ready to engage on important avenues of cooperation including the modernisation of the Customs Union, the relaunching of high-level dialogues and people-to-people contacts, plus strengthened cooperation on migration management.

Turkey has been candidate for EU membership since 1999. Accession negotiations started in 2005. In recent years the EU is often criticizing the backsliding of the country in certain areas. As a major emerging economy and a member of NATO and G20, Türkiye is recognised as an active regional foreign policy player, with a strategic location, including for the EU's energy security. Turkey is a key strategic partner of the EU on issues such as migration, security, counter-terrorism, and the economy, but according to the EU has been backsliding in the areas of democracy, rule of law and fundamental right.

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