Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said Madrid is interested in further strengthening relations with Turkey and is ready to consider simplifying travel for Turkish citizens, including the prospect of a visa-free regime. The statement comes amid intensified Turkish-Spanish dialogue and discussions on future cooperation between Ankara and the EU.
It is important to understand that the decision of one country is not enough to cancel visas – coordination at the level of the European Union and Turkey’s implementation of a number of criteria for visa liberalization are necessary. This was previously mentioned by representatives of the European Parliament.
Why was Sanchez’s statement such news?
Spain is one of the EU countries that has traditionally supported closer cooperation with Turkey. As early as 2023, Madrid publicly advocated the promotion of the Turkish European dossier, and in 2026, contacts between the countries increased markedly – from security and NATO to the economy, tourism and investment.
For millions of Turkish citizens, this is not just political news, but a matter of everyday life: travel, business, educating children, participating in international exhibitions and meetings. Against the background of the difficulties with obtaining Schengen visas, any discussion of liberalization is of great interest.