Turkey calls on EU to open defense projects to all NATO members

European defense initiatives must be available to all NATO allies, including countries not in the EU.

Turkish Minister of National Defense Yasar Guler stated this at the "Allies in Ankara" event, organized as part of the 36th summit of heads of state and government of NATO member countries with the support of the Communications Directorate under the Turkish Presidency, the Munich Security Conference (MSC), and the Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research (SETA).

"We welcome Europe's greater contribution to defense. However, this contribution should not compete with NATO but strengthen the Alliance," the head of the Turkish defense department said.

Guler emphasized that NATO, since its creation, represents more than just a military alliance and is the institutional embodiment of collective defense, political solidarity, and the transatlantic link.

He recalled that throughout history alliances have either proved short-lived or lost their functionality, failing to adapt to changing conditions. NATO, he said, has managed to preserve its existence precisely thanks to its ability to renew itself without losing sight of its core purpose.

Guler stated that one of the key issues facing NATO at the current time is the extent and speed with which the alliance can turn political commitments into concrete military capabilities.

"Increasing defense spending is important. However, spending alone does not create deterrence. Deterrence requires trained personnel, ready forces, ammunition, strong logistics, integrated air and missile defense, effective command and control, cyber resilience, industrial capacity, and political resolve," the department head explained.

Source: Anadolu