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Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler emphasized Türkiye's position as having NATO's second-largest army and being among the alliance's top contributors to operations and missions during remarks at NATO headquarters in Brussels.
"Türkiye, with NATO's second-largest army, is among the members contributing most to the alliance's operations and missions," Guler said while addressing Turkish personnel stationed at NATO headquarters during the Defense Ministers meeting.
Speaking to personnel during Eid al-Adha celebrations, Guler highlighted Türkiye's critical role amid rising regional and global tensions.
The defense minister emphasized Türkiye's expanding international role, stating that the country's multifaceted responsibilities across various regions demonstrate its importance.
"The multifaceted duties we undertake in many regions clearly demonstrate that Türkiye has become an indispensable member of negotiation tables and a leading actor in the security architecture," Guler said.
He stressed that Türkiye will continue contributing to regional and global security, peace, and stability in line with NATO's security policies and strategic objectives.
Guler highlighted Türkiye's successful management of the NATO KFOR Command, which the Turkish Armed Forces assumed in 2024 with great success.
"Throughout the period we assumed command, we acted in accordance with NATO and United Nations decisions, with complete impartiality, transparency, and professionalism required by international responsibility," he stated.
Türkiye currently serves as KFOR Deputy Commander and will resume the command position in October, continuing to contribute significantly to regional stability.
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The defense minister emphasized the importance of allied solidarity, particularly regarding Türkiye's counterterrorism efforts.
"The stronger NATO members are, the stronger the alliance will be. It is especially important for our allies to support our country's efforts in successfully fighting many terrorist organizations," Guler said.
He stressed that allies must act in accordance with the spirit of unity, solidarity, and cooperation as NATO reaches its 75th anniversary.
Guler noted that Türkiye, located in a strategic and challenging geography, develops strategic approaches against risks and threats while fulfilling its share of the collective burden in the best possible way.
He emphasized Türkiye's effective international role through active diplomacy, distinguished and deterrent military force, and domestic defense industry capabilities.
Addressing Turkish personnel at NATO headquarters, Guler emphasized their mission to represent Türkiye's prestige and reputation in the international arena.
"You were selected for these valuable positions from among your peers, with all your qualifications carefully considered. While representing our country and heroic army in the best way, you also contribute to the secure future of the entire world," he told the personnel.
The defense minister highlighted the importance of international experience for professional development, noting that personnel's experiences at NATO headquarters would benefit both individual growth and the Turkish Armed Forces' development.
"When you return to our country, sharing your achievements here with your colleagues will help develop their strategic perspectives," Guler said.
Guler later emphasized the importance of teamwork, discipline, and cooperation in achieving success at NATO headquarters.
"Act as a team and in solidarity. Also, develop good relations with personnel from other countries during your duty here. Let your behavior, appearance, discipline, and demeanor be an example to everyone," he instructed.
In a separate development, Defense Minister Guler signed the Electromagnetic Warfare Coalition Letter of Intent on behalf of Türkiye during the NATO Defense Ministers meeting.
The signing ceremony took place with defense minister counterparts participating in the Brussels meeting, according to the Defense Ministry's social media announcement.
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