Ankara: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the importance of integrating Trkiye's defense industry with that of the UK, Norway, and the European Union. Speaking at the NATO Public Forum in The Hague, Rutte commended Trkiye's defense industrial capabilities and highlighted the significance of fostering closer ties between these entities.

According to Anadolu Agency, Rutte remarked on the impressive nature of Trkiye's defense sector following his visits to various companies within the country. He stressed the need for Trkiye's defense industry to establish stronger connections with the UK, Norway, and the EU, in order to enhance cooperation and integration within the alliance.

Rutte also cautioned against the emergence of internal divisions within NATO, particularly those arising from differing defense cooperation frameworks. He stated that constructing barriers within the alliance would not be beneficial. The remarks came as NATO's 32 member states convened in The Hague for a summit focusing on increased defense spending and discussions regarding Ukraine's membership aspirations.