Turkiye's defense minister: Turkey seeks to leverage EU's 'safe' scheme for future European security cooperation

Turkiye's defense minister: Turkey seeks to leverage EU's 'safe' scheme for future European security cooperation

Turkey's Deputy Defense Minister, Suay Alpay, has emphasized the crucial role of Turkey in European security, stressing that the European Union (EU) faces a "great threat" without Turkey's involvement. Speaking at the Black Sea and Balkans Security Forum 2025, Alpay underscored that Turkey's geopolitical position and capabilities make it an essential partner for lasting peace and stability in a volatile region [2].

Alpay's remarks come at a time when the EU is re-evaluating its security posture amid signals of shifting US commitments. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has criticized European nations for underfunding defense, urging greater investment in national capabilities. Similarly, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that Europe should not assume a continued US presence, calling for more burden-sharing among allies [3].

Alpay emphasized that Turkey's proactive stance on international partnership, particularly with Europe, is essential. He called for closer cooperation on defense technologies and underlined Turkey's potential in this area. He also highlighted the importance of the Montreux Convention, which regulates passage through the Turkish Straits, and Turkey's commitment to maintaining Black Sea stability [2].

The EU's new comprehensive strategy for the Black Sea, unveiled on Wednesday, stressed the importance of a coordinated approach with Turkey, an EU partner of strategic importance and a candidate country [2].

In parallel, Turkey has been playing a significant role as a peacemaker in regional diplomacy. It has mediated between Ethiopia and Somalia and contributed to peacebuilding through trilateral cooperation in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Turkey's mediation between Russia and Ukraine, including hosting peace talks, has further cemented its role as a trusted facilitator [2].

As the EU and Turkey seek to strengthen their security cooperation, Turkey's defense minister has called for a more inclusive and embracing approach from the EU. This includes fully recognizing Turkey's contributions to European security and engaging in closer cooperation on defense technologies. The EU, in turn, is acknowledging the importance of Turkey's role in maintaining regional stability and peace.

References:
[1] https://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng_agt?g=inq&k=20250603INQR-globalnation-inquirer-net-279120
[2] https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/european-security-under-great-threat-without-turkkiye-turkish-deputy-defense-minister/3584263
[3] https://tass.com/politics/1968353