Tuesday April 13th 2021
“Not prepared for reality”
Weber sees EU problem in “Sofagate” incident
After the diplomatic fiasco in Ankara, EPP boss Weber sharply criticized the EU Commission President von der Leyen and Council boss Michel: one expects unity from top politicians, especially against autocrats. As far as foreign policy is concerned, however, the EU generally has some catching up to do.
The CSU European politician Manfred Weber has criticized the appearance of the EU leaders on their recent visit to Turkey. This is a further warning sign that EU foreign policy is not prepared for the tough realities, said the group leader of the European People’s Party (EPP) after a meeting of the EU parliamentary leaders.
Unity is expected from the top politicians who represent the EU in the world, Weber added. “Especially when you are dealing with autocrats and dictators – politicians who feed conflict rather than compromise – the European Union must appear strong and united under all circumstances.”
EU Commission head Ursula von der Leyen and Council President Charles Michel visited Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last week and promised him closer cooperation. There was excitement about the seating arrangement at the meeting: Erdogan only offered Michel a chair next to him, von der Leyen had to sit on a sofa to the side and looked duped. Michel and von der Leyen reported to the top of the EU Parliament on Tuesday.
Council President Michel on probation?
Michel is criticized because he followed the requirements of the seating arrangement during the public appearance and did not advocate equal treatment by der Leyens. According to the EU Commission, Michel von der Leyen has now made it clear that she will never allow such a situation again. Michel expressed regret.
The incident in Ankara cast doubt on Michel’s suitability for his office as Council President, said the left-wing parliamentary group leader Martin Schirdewan. “Michel is actually on trial for me. In terms of foreign policy, he let Erdogan pull himself in.”
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