Main information
- Turkey proves that it is a precious NATO ally thanks to defense innovation and regional diplomacy.
- Belgium seeks to strengthen its ties of defense with Turkey through industrial cooperation and joint exercises.
- The Minister of Defense Theo Francken (N-VA) praised the role of Turkey in the facilitation of peace talks on the Ukrainian conflict.
Visiting the International Defense Industry Show (IDEF) in Istanbul, the Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken (N-VA), praised Turkey’s important role as a member of NATO. He also underlined the growing influence of Turkey in the field of defense technologies and regional diplomacy. He declared it in an interview with Turkish media Anadolu.
Francken described Turkey as an experienced and reliable partner. He underlined the complexity of the geopolitical landscape and the importance of defense investments.
Turkey’s advances in defense technology
He admired Turkey’s progress in defense technology, especially with regard to drones, anti-line systems and laser technology. Francken expressed the wish to strengthen bilateral links between Belgium and Turkey in defense. This should be done through a larger number of industrial partnerships and joint exercises within NATO.
He announced his intention to soon sign a memorandum of understanding with the Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guller.
The role of Turkey in the facilitation of peace talks
Francken also recognized the crucial role of Turkey in the facilitation of peace talks concerning the Ukrainian conflict, praising its international position and its ability to bring the parties.
He underlined the support of Belgium to the involvement of Turkey in the defense initiatives of the EU, deeming it essential to European security even without being a full member of the EU. In order to strengthen bilateral links, Francken has announced the intention of Belgium to welcome a representative of the Turkish defense industry in Brussels.
Belgian commitment to humanitarian aid
Addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Francken reiterated Belgium’s commitment to provide help to civilians affected by the conflict. He indicated that the Belgian Air Force is ready to take up humanitarian drops from Jordan. He also stressed the importance of protecting Palestinian civilians and ensuring their access to essential resources such as food, water and education.
