Türkiye to expand defense partnership with Spain, Erdogan announces

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced plans to elevate Türkiye’s defense cooperation with Spain on Thursday, building on the TCG Anadolu project. “We took a step with TCG Anadolu. Now, we want to move to a higher or upper segment,” Erdogan said during a joint press conference with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Moncloa Palace. The two leaders met for bilateral discussions and the signing of agreements between their countries.

Addressing questions from the press, Erdogan expressed Türkiye’s willingness to consider any plan or decision by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that aims to secure a just and lasting peace in Gaza. “What matters is that these plans and decisions are addressed sincerely and peace-oriented, not just remaining on paper but being implemented,” Erdogan said. He emphasized that Türkiye has been advocating for an end to the bloodshed from the beginning and remains engaged in discussions with all necessary parties.

The President noted the broad support for an immediate and lasting ceasefire reflected in recent UN General Assembly votes and public demonstrations worldwide. “We find it positive that the UNSC has reached such a ground, but the UN has suffered a significant blow in this process,” he said. Erdogan called on UNSC members, particularly the United States, to pressure Israel to achieve an immediate ceasefire. “Our hope is for Israel to cease these attacks and move towards establishing permanent peace in the region,” he stated.

Regarding defense cooperation with Spain, Erdogan highlighted the collaborative efforts already underway and the ambition to expand them. “This is a proposal for solidarity in the defense industry. We’ve already taken a step with TCG Anadolu. Now, we want to move to a higher segment and are working on this. We aim to build something larger together,” Erdogan said. He mentioned ongoing projects in the defense sector, including advancements in unmanned aerial vehicles and potentially unmanned submarines.

Responding to questions about Israel’s attacks on Gaza, Erdogan reiterated his criticism of the international community’s inaction, specifically targeting the UNSC. “The fate of the world is unfortunately in the hands of five countries. If one of these countries says ‘no,’ the matter is over,” he said, referencing his books, “A Fairer World is Possible” and “The World is Bigger Than Five.” He condemned the support for Israel by certain UNSC members and highlighted the deaths caused by the conflict. “Israel continues its ruthless massacres, and the stance of the United States, in particular, deeply saddens us,” he added.

Erdogan also addressed a question about the legal cases of Selahattin Demirtas and Osman Kavala, asserting Türkiye’s commitment to the rule of law. “Türkiye is a state of law. In this legal state, the judiciary makes decisions. Regarding these individuals, our judiciary has made its decision, and we act accordingly,” he said. Erdogan criticized the defense of these figures by some journalists, citing their alleged involvement in terrorist activities. “We live in Türkiye and take these steps to ensure peace in the region. This will continue,” he concluded.