Türkiye calls on NATO allies for solidarity against terrorism

Foreign Minister Fidan urges NATO unity in the fight against terrorism and emphasizes the need for joint efforts during the Brussels meeting

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, during the two-day NATO foreign ministers meeting in Brussels, appealed to NATO members for support in Türkiye’s fight against terrorism, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation.

“We underlined that NATO member countries should fully and unconditionally support Türkiye in the fight against terrorism,” Fidan emphasized during his discussions with reporters in Brussels.

Fidan stressed that some NATO members must refrain from collaborating with terrorist organizations, particularly referencing activities in Syria. “We said this is against the spirit of the NATO alliance,” he reiterated.

Notably, Fidan highlighted the appointment of a counterterrorism coordinator at last year’s Vilnius Summit, underscoring ongoing efforts within NATO to address the fight against terrorism in a structured and coordinated manner.

Fidan further elaborated on discussions concerning the activities of the PKK terrorist organization in Europe, urging European nations not only to denounce but also to take significant measures against PKK’s violence targeting Turkish nationals.

Fidan expressed his observations on Europe’s increasing sensitivity to the PKK, noting, “This is actually a positive development. I see a gradual decrease in tolerance toward the PKK, which is significant.”

Türkiye, a member of NATO since 1952, has actively contributed to the alliance for 72 years, Fidan said, emphasizing Türkiye’s role in NATO missions.

Dutch PM Rutte running to be next NATO Chief

Fidan announced that Türkiye will host the informal NATO foreign minister meeting next year and addressed the race for the next NATO secretary-general. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, a candidate for the position, is expected to visit Türkiye soon, he added. 

Regarding Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg’s term ending in October, Fidan mentioned President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s conversation with Rutte, in which Türkiye pledged to support a candidate based on expectations and needs in the fight against terrorism and other challenges.

Regional issues discussed

Fidan also addressed regional issues, including Türkiye’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Stressing Türkiye’s support for Ukraine’s security and sovereignty, he urged alternative paths toward peace and a cease-fire to halt the ongoing war.

In discussions about Gaza, Fidan voiced concerns over the dire situation and emphasized the need for a cease-fire, urgent humanitarian aid, and a two-state solution perspective. He noted the growing consensus among counterparts on these matters.

Lastly, Fidan mentioned discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken regarding President Erdogan’s upcoming visit to the U.S.

Scheduled to cover various issues such as bilateral relations, regional matters, and the crises in Ukraine and Gaza, Erdogan aims to broaden and balance Turkish-American relations beyond security concerns.

The goal is to create a more comprehensive and mutually beneficial relationship spanning areas such as economy, technology, and trade, emphasized Fidan.

Source: Newsroom