The European Commission has clarified remarks made by its president, Ursula von der Leyen, regarding the need to shield Europe from the influence of third countries such as Russia, Turkey, and China, while also emphasizing Turkey’s role as a candidate country.

Speaking during the Commission’s regular press briefing on Tuesday, spokesperson Paula Pinho responded to a question from Anadolu Agency, noting that Turkey’s candidate status entails increased responsibilities.

“Precisely because Turkey is a candidate country, it carries additional responsibility in its region. We do not monitor the influence it exerts in neighboring areas,” she said.

Pinho explained that von der Leyen’s remarks primarily referred to the Western Balkans and were linked to the need for regional relations to align with the principles and values of the European Union. She stressed that the EU expects Turkey to act in a manner consistent with the European framework of values in its regional policies.

Von der Leyen made the comments on Monday during an event in Hamburg marking the 80th anniversary of the German newspaper Die Zeit, where she reiterated her support for European Union enlargement.

“We must succeed in completing the European continent so that it is not influenced by Russia, Turkey, or China,” she said.