The historical relationship between Turkey and European countries has evolved since the 11th century, marked by cultural and religious conflicts stemming from the Ottoman Empire's legacy. Following the empire's collapse, Mustafa Kamal Pasha Ataturk's leadership guided Turkey towards European integration, beginning with its 1959 application for associate membership in the European Community. The 1963 Ankara Agreement further solidified ties, influenced by the shared threat of the Soviet Union and cooperation within NATO, highlighting the complex interplay of politics and culture in this region.
