Ankara: Turkey has criticized the European Union's recent "common understanding" document, claiming it lacks neutrality and fails to recognize Turkey's strategic role in European security and its status as an EU candidate country.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Turkish Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Oncu Ki§li stated in a press release that the document, released by the EU on Wednesday, reflects a biased perspective. He explained that this document was drafted following the NATO summit in Ankara, which highlighted Turkey's essential role in the region, suggesting the document attempts to obscure this fact.

Ki§li also dismissed the document's claims regarding the Eastern Mediterranean as unfounded, accusing the EU of maintaining a distorted view of events in the region.

Further criticism came from Burhanettin Duran, head of the Turkish Presidency's Communications Directorate, who argued that the EU's assessments lack objectivity and strategic foresight. He emphasized that the EU's disregard for Turkey's candidate status highlights a lack of vision for a shared future between the two parties.

Duran reiterated that the NATO summit in Ankara underscored Turkey's vital role in Euro-Atlantic security. He criticized the EU's unilateral rhetoric concerning the Eastern Mediterranean and Cyprus, asserting it does not align with international law or historical realities.

Duran urged the European Union to adopt a more responsible and neutral approach, emphasizing mutual respect and shared interests to foster constructive dialogue between the EU and Turkey.