During a meeting of the North Atlantic Council in Ankara, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged the removal of restrictions on defense cooperation among NATO allies. He emphasized that these limitations, particularly in the defense industry, should be lifted.
Erdogan highlighted the growing responsibilities of European allies in continental defense, stressing the need to avoid policies that could undermine NATO unity and transatlantic ties. “As European allies take on greater responsibility for defending the continent, we must refrain from actions that could weaken the alliance’s cohesion and transatlantic relationships,” he stated.
The Turkish leader noted the significant advancements Turkey has made in its defense sector, declaring, “Undoubtedly, our greatest success lies in the progress we have achieved in the defense industry.” He remarked that Turkey has become one of the top 10 countries globally in terms of defense production and export capacity.
Turkey to Increase Defense Spending to 3.5%
Erdogan reaffirmed Ankara’s commitment to strengthening its NATO contributions by raising defense expenditure. “Turkey has taken steps to increase our defense spending to 3.5% of GDP before 2030,” he revealed, adding that the country has already allocated 1.5% of its budget for security and resilience.
He also announced an additional $24 billion allocation for Turkey’s Steel Dome air and missile defense project, aimed at addressing a critical capability gap within NATO. Erdogan assured that Turkey, which boasts the largest standing army in Europe, remains ready to deploy its military resources to the alliance whenever necessary.
He highlighted Turkey’s role as a significant contributor to NATO operations, missions, and exercises in Kosovo, the Black Sea, the Baltic region, and other areas. Additionally, Turkey aims to gain NATO accreditation for an excellence center dedicated to countering unmanned aerial systems, citing its successful deployment of drones in real combat scenarios. “I believe this center will enhance our ability to counter threats posed especially by aerial and maritime drones,” he explained.
Support for Two-State Solution
On Middle Eastern developments, Erdogan expressed Turkey’s backing for a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine. He reiterated, “I emphasize once again that the two-state solution is the key to lasting peace in the Middle East,” while urging NATO allies to stand “fully united” against terrorism.
Erdogan also praised U.S. President Donald Trump’s firm stance on regulating tensions involving Iran. “I appreciate the strong position my friend, Mr. Trump, has taken, which has helped steer the management of the crisis in Iran onto the right path, despite attempts at sabotage,” he stated. He added that Turkey is prepared to assist in mine removal efforts in the Strait of Hormuz.
Regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Erdogan affirmed that Turkey continues to communicate with both Kyiv and Moscow to promote peace. “While we support Ukraine, we also use our communication channels to encourage Russia toward peace,” he noted. He expressed support for the American president’s efforts to end the conflict, stating, “We share Mr. Trump’s vision for peace in the war in Ukraine and support the initiative that addresses Ukraine’s priority needs.”
