Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called on NATO allies to establish an "unconditional" security and defense network stretching "from Texas to Ankara," while strongly advocating for Türkiye’s inclusion in European Union defense initiatives.

Speaking at a historic luncheon in honor of NATO Parliamentary Speakers at Istanbul's Dolmabahçe Palace, Erdoğan warned that Euro-Atlantic security is passing through a profound transformation marked by war, global crises, and shifting geopolitical realities.

"The Euro-Atlantic security is at a historic turning point," Erdoğan told the delegation of allied lawmakers, pointing to escalating tensions along the alliance's eastern and southeastern borders. "As old patterns and premises crumble one by one, it is still unknown what will replace them. We are in the midst of a period of uncertainty."

The Turkish leader emphasized that the current global instability makes maintaining NATO’s deterrence and internal solidarity more critical than ever. He highlighted Türkiye’s significant contributions as a pillar of European security, noting that Ankara ranks among the top five allies contributing to NATO missions and operations, backed by rising defense spending in line with commitments made at the Hague Summit.

Despite these contributions, Erdoğan lamented that Türkiye’s vital role is occasionally overlooked by continental partners. He urged European lawmakers to support Ankara’s integration into newly announced EU defense initiatives, warning that political exclusion harms collective safety.

"Excluding Türkiye's capabilities in the sphere of defense due to shallow political interests benefits no one," Erdoğan asserted. "At this point, we must create an unconditional security and defense network across the Alliance."

Erdoğan also demanded the removal of trade barriers and unilateral defense embargoes between member states, arguing that a balanced, fair sharing of burdens is impossible without free defense trade.

The parliamentary gathering serves as a critical curtain-raiser for the upcoming full NATO Leaders' Summit in Ankara on July 7–8. Erdoğan stated that the high-profile summit has drawn intense global interest and will serve as the "strongest platform for sharing experience."

A key focus of the Ankara meeting will be a dedicated NATO Defense Industry Forum, where Türkiye intends to showcase the dramatic advancements of its domestic defense sector.

"Our allies and guests will see the significant progress Türkiye has made in the field of defense industry in a short period of time," Erdoğan said, noting that joint innovation and production will take center stage.

Erdoğan said NATO must adopt a 360-degree security approach when addressing global crises, including the wars in Ukraine, tensions in Iran and the Gulf, and the situation in Palestine.

He reiterated Türkiye’s support for efforts to sustain the ceasefire between the United States and Iran and emphasized cooperation with regional partners to achieve lasting stability.

Palestine, Ukraine, and regional peace

Calling for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, Erdoğan said lasting peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without ending occupation and reaching a two-state solution.

He also stressed the importance of diplomatic efforts to resolve the Russia–Ukraine war, noting Türkiye’s role as a mediator trusted by both sides.

“The gateway to lasting peace is the two-state solution,” he said, urging international support for diplomatic initiatives aimed at reducing regional tensions. (ILKHA)