Minister of National Defense Hulusi Akar answered the questions of the journalists he met after the NATO Defense Ministers Meeting and made statements regarding the agenda.
“THES RESTRICTIONS DAMAGE NATO”
Stating that they shared Turkey’s views both in the sessions within the scope of the meeting and in the bilateral meetings, Akar stated that the meetings were positive.
Noting that during the meetings, they expressed the importance of cooperation in the fight against terrorism and the restrictions imposed on Turkey in the field of defense industry, among other issues, Akar said, “We stated that these restrictions also harm NATO and that this is incompatible with the spirit of alliance. We have fulfilled all our responsibilities at NATO for 70 years, now we have “And then we will continue to do so. We have made it clear that we will also continue to protect our national rights and interests.” he said.
SWEDEN AND FINLAND’S APPLICATION TO NATO
Asked about the process of Sweden and Finland’s membership to NATO, Akar said, “As Turkey, we are at the center of NATO’s security, an active and constructive member that shares NATO’s values and responsibilities. We find NATO’s enlargement meaningful and important to the extent that it respects our sensitivities. ” he said.
Pointing out the importance of acting with the spirit of true alliance within the framework of NATO’s founding principles, Akar said:
“NATO is a security organization. One of the biggest areas of struggle is terrorism. NATO’s founding principles require combating all kinds of terrorist organizations for regional and global stability and security. It requires cooperation and solidarity in this regard. In NATO’s traditions, fundamental This is an issue that exists in its documents and working principles. Turkey is the only NATO member country that fights more than one terrorist organization at the same time. On the other hand, the last barrier between Europe and terrorism. While we are fighting terrorism in the north of Syria and Iraq, we will protect our citizens and our country. At the same time, we prevent terrorists from spreading to Europe.”
“CAN THERE BE SUCH AN ALLIANCE?”
Stating that the allies should be sensitive on this issue, Akar said, “An understanding that ignores terrorists who attack an alliance member country, martyr the security forces and massacre innocent people is incompatible with the spirit of friendship and alliance. Sweden and Finland provide political and financial support to terrorist organizations, “Is it acceptable for terrorists in the north of Iraq and Syria to flee and stay in these countries as a shelter after they carry out attacks against our country? Does this fit the spirit of alliance, is there such an alliance? ?” said.
“A SITUATION OF MIND”
Noting that they presented the evidence regarding this to their interlocutors at the meetings, Akar said, “There is a Swedish-made AT-4 anti-tank weapon. We captured a large number of these weapons used by terrorists in our operations in northern Iraq and Syria. We revealed all of their photographs and serial numbers in our meetings.” said.
Reminding the pro-terrorist demonstrations in the countries in question and the negativities in the extradition processes of terrorists, Akar said, “We consider that the demand to give all kinds of support to terrorist organizations and then take part in the joint defense organization as an ally is a great inconsistency.” used the phrase.
Drawing attention to the embargo imposed by some allied countries against Turkey in the defense industry, Akar said:
“On the one hand, ‘Let’s get stronger, let’s get stronger, let’s be united against all kinds of threats to NATO.’ On the other hand, an arms embargo is imposed against Turkey. In addition, unlimited support is provided against terrorist organizations. Such alliance per enemy. Let’s say the countries in question are included in the Alliance. As per Article 5, against the attack of any country outside the Alliance. The Alliance will protect you. Turkey will also contribute to your protection as a member of this Alliance. But while the terrorist organization is attacking your ally Turkey, you say, ‘I have nothing to do.’ You will say. It is truly mind-blowing.”
RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR
When asked about the grain crisis caused by the Ukraine-Russia War, Akar stated that contacts with both Russia and Ukraine continue under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. In this context, Akar stated that he is continuing his meetings with the Ministers of Defense of Russia and Ukraine, and said, “There is an urgent need for a ceasefire due to the deteriorating humanitarian situation, as well as a reduction in tension. Increasing tension is harmful to everyone, and this should be reduced together.”
Emphasizing that they are working to solve the serious problems of shipping ships loaded with various foodstuffs, especially grain, from Ukrainian ports, Akar made the following statements:
“Our work on the evacuation of 15 of our ships in the ports continues. We are in talks with both Ukraine and Russia, and we also maintain contacts with the UN. We have appointed a general from the defense ministries of Ukraine, Russia and Turkey regarding this. The first meeting with the Russian general was held on 1 June. 4 June” A meeting was also held with the UN representative. This is what is called the ‘red line’ and it is used constantly. Efforts continue to ensure that grain and agricultural products reach their addresses in the fastest and safest way. This situation affects the whole world. A point has been reached regarding this, albeit slowly. “We think that we will have the opportunity to develop the events even faster in the coming days. We are working to ensure that this issue is resolved quickly by holding a meeting with Russia, Ukraine, the UN, and Turkey. The UN has a plan in this regard. We continue our facilitating role for the solution of the problem.”
Emphasizing the importance of not eroding the Montreux Convention while all these studies are being carried out, Akar said, “We want the balance here not to be disturbed within the scope of the principle of regional ownership and the domination of the situation by the littoral countries. If the balance is disturbed here, the probability of events getting out of control is very high. Let’s not turn the Black Sea into a competitive environment.” said.
THE TENSION WITH GREECE: WHAT ARE YOU FINDING?
Reminding that he met with the Greek Minister of Defense at NATO Headquarters, Minister Akar, on the question regarding the recent tension between Greece and Turkey, expressed Turkey’s will to live in peace, prosperity and peace with its neighbors, and said:
“Certain politicians in Greece continue their actions and rhetoric due to some ambitions. However, there are armament studies they have started. The economic reflection of this on the Greek people is also very heavy. They are also pursuing alliances. Against all these, we continue our efforts to solve the problems peacefully. Our neighbor, our NATO ally It is important for us to act with the acceptance that we can solve our problems with Greece through diplomatic means, that we can benefit from the riches better if we are together and united, and that this may have positive reflections on the welfare of our countries. We consider it important to keep communication channels open for the solution of current problems. Focusing on a positive agenda and reducing tensions will help both bilateral relations and bilateral relations. It will also contribute to regional cooperation. We are pleased to observe that some politicians, academics and retired soldiers in Greece use the arguments we have expressed.”
Asked about the tension he experienced with Greek deputies at the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (NATO PA) Political Commission and the Mediterranean and Middle East Special Group meeting held in Istanbul, Akar said:
“We gave a briefing in a very selected, polite, diplomatic language without provoking anyone. The essence of our briefing was: ‘Is there a problem between Turkey and Greece? There is. How to solve it? There are consultations, separation procedures and confidence-building measures. We can solve problems.’ We said.
Source: AA