US Urges Stronger Defence Ties with Turkey Within NATO

Washington (ANTARA) - The United States must take steps to strengthen its defence relationship with Turkey, said US Ambassador to the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Matthew Whitaker to Fox News on Wednesday.

“Turkey is a highly capable ally. They are strongly committed to the NATO alliance as well as their own security and that of their allies,” said Whitaker.

“We need to continue strengthening that relationship,” he added.

Ambassador Whitaker reaffirmed his position by stating that all other NATO members should follow Ankara’s lead regarding military industry output.

“We must ensure all parties move quickly. US President Donald Trump knows exactly how to execute this strategy. These engines are essential for building and strengthening the alliance in the interest of the United States,” Whitaker added.

The NATO Summit will be held in Ankara on 7-8 July.

Previously, on 23 June, Turkish authorities stated that the meeting agenda would include further support for Ukraine, the strengthening of the alliance’s defence capabilities, the situation in the Middle East, and cooperation in the defence industry sector.

For the first time, the NATO Defence Industry Forum will be held as part of the summit, involving member states and several leading industry representatives.