Türkiye indispensable part of European security architecture: Defense Ministry

Türkiye remains a crucial component of European security with its strong military, expanding defense industry, and key role in regional crisis management, according to Turkish Defense Ministry (MoD) sources.

Speaking at a weekly press briefing, officials emphasized Türkiye’s position within NATO, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and as a candidate country for the European Union.

Türkiye’s commitment to European security

Ministry officials reaffirmed Türkiye is fully committed to European security and stability. “As a NATO and OSCE member, as well as an EU candidate country, Türkiye is an indispensable part of European security architecture because of its evolving defense industry, its pivotal role in resolving regional crises, and its powerful military force,” officials stated.

The statement comes as European nations reevaluate their security strategies, with Türkiye playing a more active role in regional and global security discussions.

Türkiye’s participation in high-level defense meetings, including the recent Defense and Security Forum in Paris, underscores its increasing engagement in shaping European defense policy.

Türkiye’s role in the Syria agreement

Addressing the agreement between Syria’s new administration and the terrorist organization YPG, the ministry noted Türkiye is closely monitoring the situation.

“We will assess how this agreement is implemented and how it reflects on the ground. We will closely follow both the positive and negative outcomes,” officials said.

Türkiye remains firm in its stance against terrorist activities in Syria, emphasizing its expectation that all terrorist operations cease, militants disarm, and foreign fighters leave Syrian territory.

Officials also confirmed that Türkiye’s military attaché in Syria would be received by the Syrian Defense Minister, signaling continued diplomatic engagement.

Additionally, a Turkish military delegation is scheduled to visit Syria in the coming days.

High-level defense engagements in Europe

Türkiye is maintaining strong diplomatic and military ties with European allies.

Officials highlighted that British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps is set to visit Türkiye to discuss key security issues, including the war in Ukraine and regional defense cooperation.

“Recent developments have once again demonstrated the critical role of our country in ensuring European security,” officials said. “During the British Defense Secretary’s visit, we will discuss Ukraine and European security, as well as bilateral and regional defense and security cooperation, including defense industry collaboration.”

General Metin Gurak, Türkiye’s Chief of General Staff, also participated in the Defense and Security Forum’s General Staff Meeting in Paris on March 10-11. The discussions centered on collective approaches to security challenges and constructive solutions, with Türkiye continuing its bilateral engagements on European security.

“Türkiye holds a significant position within the European security architecture and is ready to fulfill its responsibilities in this regard,” ministry officials stated.

Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet procurement process continues

Responding to questions about Türkiye’s procurement of Eurofighter Typhoon jets, ministry officials confirmed that progress is ongoing.

“The Requirement Definition Document for the procurement of 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets has been sent to the U.K. Ministry of Defense and the relevant manufacturer. We previously announced that we were expecting an offer. The proposal has been received, and the evaluation process is underway,” the statement read.

The potential acquisition of Eurofighter jets is seen as part of Türkiye’s broader efforts to modernize its air force.

Call for increased international efforts on peace and stability

Turkish Defense Ministry Spokesperson Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk also addressed international peace and security efforts.

“The Turkish Armed Forces continue to make significant contributions to global security through its responsibilities on international platforms and bilateral engagements.”

Regarding recent developments in Gaza, Akturk noted Türkiye welcomed the decision made in Cairo on March 4 to support the reconstruction of Gaza.

“A cease-fire must be maintained, humanitarian aid must be delivered, and Israel must cease its attacks in Gaza and the West Bank so that the Palestinian people can live in their homeland,” he emphasized.

Akturk called for increased global efforts to promote peace and stability, stating, “Türkiye will continue to support all initiatives that contribute to regional peace and stability.”