Erdogan Calls for Removal of Restrictions on Turkey’s Defense Industry in European Defense

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called for the removal of obstacles and restrictions on Turkey’s defense industry concerning its participation in Europe’s security and defense architecture. Before departing for The Hague to attend the NATO Summit on June 24, 2025, Erdogan told reporters that Ankara is closely monitoring recent European Union initiatives in defense and security. “To strengthen defense capabilities and improve military efficiency, it is not right to impose trade barriers on defense products among allies,” Erdogan stated. He emphasized that these barriers should be lifted immediately without conditions. Erdogan highlighted Turkey’s significant contribution to European security, surpassing many EU members, arguing that Turkey should be included appropriately in defense initiatives. He also noted that integrating Turkey’s defense sector into EU mechanisms would benefit all of Europe. Ankara remains in close consultation with non-EU allied countries like the UK and Norway. As a NATO ally commanding the alliance’s second-largest land force, Turkey continuously develops its defense capabilities while contributing to NATO’s deterrence power. During the summit, Erdogan plans to address measures supporting NATO’s European pillar. Regarding the Israel-Iran conflict, Erdogan expressed support for any efforts leading to a ceasefire and lasting peace in the region. Finally, he announced that the next NATO Summit in 2026 will be requested to take place in Turkey.