Istanbul: Former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg recounts meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in his memoir that has extensive memories and developments during his 10-year tenure as the head of the alliance.

According to Anadolu Agency, Stoltenberg discusses a range of incidents and relations with Erdogan, highlighting the downing of a Russian Su-24 aircraft by Turkish fighter jets in 2015. Stoltenberg emphasized NATO's solidarity with Ankara but noted a "deep disagreement" within the alliance regarding the crisis. Eastern European countries supported Turkey, advocating for additional air defense along the Syrian border, while France and Italy opposed explicit support for Ankara, and Germany favored a more measured response.

Stoltenberg's memoir also reflects on his long-standing acquaintance with Erdogan, describing him as a determined and knowledgeable leader. He noted Trkiye's significant role in NATO and its key position in the fight against ISIS. Stoltenberg recounted Erdogan's insistence on establishing a safe zone in northern Syria before Operation Peace Spring in 2019, highlighting Erdogan's clarity on the issue of the YPG, which Turkey considers a terrorist organization.

Stoltenberg acknowledged Erdogan's point about Turkey being subjected to more acts of terrorism than any other NATO member, referencing Erdogan's discussions on various terror attacks. He also discussed the contentious view of the PKK and PKK/YPG as terrorist organizations, noting the complexities introduced by the US and NATO countries arming YPG members against ISIS.

The memoir further covers the NATO-led coalition's operations in Syria against ISIS, which Stoltenberg compared to Turkey's actions, underscoring Erdogan's argument about the legality of international military interventions.

Regarding the accession of Finland and Sweden to NATO, Stoltenberg highlighted Erdogan's pivotal role, noting Turkey's suspension of negotiations following a Quran-burning incident in Sweden. This incident strained Turkey-Sweden relations, affecting their NATO membership bid.

Stoltenberg also reflected on the 2016 failed coup attempt in Turkey, expressing support for Turkey's legitimate government and noting the Turkish people's disappointment in Western reactions. He detailed how his relationship with Turkey evolved during his NATO tenure, emphasizing Turkey's strategic importance in regional security and NATO's expansion.