Türkiye essential to European security: FM Fidan

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated on Wednesday that any future European security framework must include Türkiye, calling the exclusion of the country from such plans unrealistic.

“Türkiye cannot be left out of a restructured European security architecture. A security system that excludes Türkiye, a major military power, is simply not realistic,” Fidan said during a joint press conference with Albanian Foreign Minister Igli Hasani in Ankara.

European security and Türkiye’s role

Fidan highlighted the ongoing discussions among European leaders on the future of regional security, particularly in the context of NATO and the war in Ukraine.

He noted that recent diplomatic efforts, including a visit by French President Emmanuel Macron to Washington, reflect a growing debate over European defense structures.

“While efforts continue to end the war in Ukraine, European countries are also engaging in extensive consultations on their security arrangements,” he said. “We see discussions emerging on whether a European security architecture independent of NATO is feasible.”

Türkiye, a key NATO ally, has positioned itself as a critical player in both regional stability and transatlantic defense cooperation.

Fidan emphasized that Türkiye’s military and strategic influence must be considered in any long-term security planning for Europe.

US approach to Ukraine and security guarantees

Addressing shifting U.S. policy on Ukraine under the new administration, Fidan pointed out that Washington’s approach now differs significantly from the previous government’s stance.

“The U.S. is exploring ways to recover the funds it has spent on Ukraine,” he said, adding that discussions on potential agreements are ongoing. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s planned visit to Washington on Feb. 28 is expected to include talks on security guarantees in case of a future ceasefire or peace deal.

“Ukrainians are demanding concrete military and security commitments from the U.S. in any potential agreement,” Fidan noted.

Türkiye-Albania relations, security cooperation

During the press conference, Fidan reaffirmed the strong ties between Türkiye and Albania, emphasizing historical and cultural bonds.

“Our relationship spans hundreds of years, built on deep-rooted brotherhood,” he said, highlighting efforts to further institutionalize bilateral cooperation. Trade between the two nations recently reached $1 billion, with a target of increasing it to $2 billion.

Türkiye is among the leading investors in Albania, with over 800 Turkish firms operating in the country. The upcoming Türkiye-Albania Business Forum in June is expected to create new opportunities for collaboration.

Fidan also underscored the importance of military and defense cooperation. “As two NATO allies, we maintain strong defense industry ties and will continue working on joint projects,” he said.

One example of this cooperation is an Albanian infantry unit’s deployment alongside Turkish forces in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Türkiye seeks stronger Albanian support in counterterrorism efforts

Fidan reiterated Türkiye’s expectation for Albania to take firmer action against the Fetullah Terrorist Organization, also known as (FETO).

“We have emphasized once again that we expect stronger support and concrete steps from Albania in the fight against FETO,” he said.

Türkiye submits legal brief to International Court of Justice

Fidan announced that Türkiye has submitted a legal document to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague regarding Israel’s obligations under international law.

“The ICJ had requested opinions from member states, and today we are presenting Türkiye’s submission,” he stated.

The document outlines examples of alleged violations of international law by Israel, particularly regarding humanitarian aid restrictions and attacks on United Nations facilities. “We will continue to monitor Israel’s actions and advocate for the rights of the Palestinian people,” he added.

Regional stability and conflict resolution

The press conference also covered ongoing regional conflicts, including the war in Ukraine and the crisis in Gaza.

Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to diplomacy in ending the war in Ukraine and expressed hope that a lasting ceasefire agreement could be reached. “We remain ready to contribute to a fair and permanent resolution through negotiations,” he said.

On Gaza, Fidan stressed the importance of securing a long-term ceasefire and ensuring humanitarian relief. “The implementation of the next phase of the ceasefire is critical for stabilizing the region,” he said.

Türkiye’s role in the Balkans is indispensable: Albanian FM

Albanian Foreign Minister Igli Hasani praised Türkiye’s strategic importance in the Balkans, stating that its presence has been crucial in shaping regional stability over the past 30 years.

“Türkiye’s role and presence in the Balkans are indispensable,” Hasani said.

He also highlighted growing economic ties, noting that while hundreds of Turkish companies operate in Albania, there is potential for further expansion.

“Our goal is to surpass $2 billion in bilateral trade,” he added.

Albania also seeks to learn from Türkiye’s experience in the tourism sector. “We recognize Türkiye’s success in tourism and hope to benefit from its expertise,” Hasani said.

On regional security, Hasani commended Türkiye’s support for Kosovo’s international recognition and thanked President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for Türkiye’s assistance in building the Namazgah Mosque in Albania, calling it a “significant cultural heritage project.”

Hasani concluded by reaffirming Albania’s support for peace efforts in Ukraine and Gaza, acknowledging Türkiye’s role as a key dialogue facilitator in international diplomacy.