The European Political Community Summit scheduled for 18 July at Blenheim Palace will proceed without Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in attendance, as confirmed by sources. This will mark the fourth meeting of more than 50 European leaders convened by French President Emmanuel Macron in 2022. The non-binding political forum, hosted this year by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, will miss Erdogan, who opted out due to recent strenuous international travels.
While sources emphasize that Erdogan’s absence was never officially confirmed and not a cancellation, protocol issues with the British government likely played a role in his decision. This isn’t unfamiliar territory for Erdogan, who previously clashed over security measures during the Cop26 Summit. The European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, will also not attend due to prior commitments in Strasbourg, echoing jetlag concerns from other leaders.
Despite Erdogan’s absence, a recent meeting with Starmer in Washington signifies ongoing discussions to enhance bilateral relations. The Turkish leader’s decision to skip the summit underscores his focus on domestic issues amid a backdrop of complex international dynamics.