Türkiye’s role in European security is indispensable, says presidential adviser

Türkiye is a critical pillar of Europe’s security and stability, and its role cannot be overlooked, Presidential Chief Advisor and Ambassador Akif Cagatay Kilic said during a live broadcast on Turkish media outlet.

Kilic emphasized that Europe’s security framework is incomplete without Türkiye’s presence.

Türkiye’s role in European security

“We are one of the fundamental pillars of security as part of Europe. It is not possible to consider European security without Türkiye,” Kilic stated.

He reiterated that both President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the foreign minister have consistently emphasized this position at international meetings.

Kilic stressed that this is not a matter of negotiation but a reality. “Ensuring Europe’s security without Türkiye is not feasible. However, the discussion revolves around what contribution Türkiye can make and how it fits within the European Union and the broader European landscape.”

European Union’s recognition of Türkiye’s value

Kilic noted that the European Union has begun to better understand Türkiye’s strategic importance. “Years ago, our president declared that ‘the world is bigger than five,’ and we have now seen the full meaning of this statement. The flexibility in applying rules and standards has become evident.”

He pointed out discrepancies in international responses, saying: “In some countries, people face restrictions on carrying a Palestinian flag or wearing symbols representing Palestine’s freedom, while other issues receive different reactions. This highlights the double standards at play.”

Regarding Türkiye’s EU aspirations, he stated, “Our European Union membership remains a strategic goal. However, in the past year, European leaders have come to appreciate Türkiye’s significance more than ever.”

Selective approach in defense industry partnerships

Türkiye’s growing presence in the defense industry was another key topic. “Türkiye provides infrastructure support for some U.S.-manufactured defense technologies, and our capabilities in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are well known worldwide,” Kilic noted.

He highlighted that several companies and decision-makers that previously avoided defense cooperation with Türkiye are now seeking partnerships. “Many are now asking how they can work with Türkiye and integrate with Turkish industry. Our defense sector has become more selective in choosing its partners.”

Trump-Zelenskyy meeting and US role in Syria

Commenting on the recent meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Kilic said, “I didn’t see it live, but I watched it later. It is unfortunate that such a situation arose, but both sides have their own perspectives.”

On the U.S. presence in Syria, Kilic reiterated Türkiye’s stance on achieving a stable and inclusive political structure in the region. “We continue to support efforts toward a political solution in Syria.”

Türkiye’s firm stance on PKK, YPG and PYD

Kilic reaffirmed Türkiye’s long-standing position on the terrorist organization PKK, YPG, and PYD, stating: “We have clearly conveyed to the world that the PYD and YPG are branches of the PKK, leaving no room for doubt. We stand firm and will not allow these groups to establish any alternative political or military structures.”

Potential Erdogan-Putin meeting

Regarding the possibility of an upcoming meeting between President Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kilic said, “There is nothing scheduled at the moment, but it could happen at any time given how fast developments are unfolding.”

Syrian refugee returns

Kilic highlighted that the issue of Syrian refugees is not exclusive to Türkiye.

“Many Syrians reside in different European countries, and some wish to return. The key factor enabling their return is security. Many who have returned to Syria express gratitude for Türkiye’s hospitality. In some areas, Turkish has even become a second language. However, this process takes time.”