Faced with a potential new migration wave from Afghanistan, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called on European nations Thursday to shoulder the responsibility for Afghans fleeing the Taliban and warned that his country won't become Europe's "refugee warehouse."
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In a televised address following a Cabinet meeting, Erdogan also said his government would "if necessary" engage in talks with a government that could be formed by the Taliban " for the stability and security of this country."
Erdogan's comments come amid an increase in recent weeks in the number of Afghans making their way into Turkey across the border from Iran. Anti-migrant sentiment is running high in Turkey as it grapples with economic woes — including high unemployment — that have been exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, and there is little appetite in the country to take in more people.
"We need to remind our European friends of this fact: Europe — which has become the center of attraction for millions of people — cannot stay out of (the refugee) problem by harshly sealing its borders to protect the safety and well-being of its citizens," Erdogan said.
"Turkey has no duty, responsibility or obligation to be Europe's refugee warehouse," Erdogan said.
