Erdogan uses refugee issue for his own benefit in EU
EU leaders' focus during Erdogan’s visit to Brussels was on stemming the flow of Syrian refugees, not on his authoritarian and undemocratic ways.
Syrian refugees streaming into Europe, the need to combat the Islamic State (IS) and the uncertainties set in motion by Russia’s military intervention in Syria have increased President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s value to European leaders.
This became apparent during Erdogan’s state visit to Brussels Oct. 4-6 at the invitation of Belgian King Philippe. During the visit, Erdogan also spoke with the presidents of the European Council, European Commission and European Parliament, who had Syria high on the agenda.
