Helsinki: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated on Wednesday that Trkiye aims to expand defense industry cooperation with Finland through concrete projects between institutions and companies. Fidan described the effort as one that would strengthen NATO's deterrence and bolster Europe's overall security and defense capacity. Fidan made these remarks at a joint news conference in Helsinki with his Finnish counterpart, Elina Valtonen, following discussions focused on bilateral ties and regional security.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan highlighted Trkiye's critical contributions to Europe's security, noting discussions with Valtonen on broader European security issues as Finland prepares to chair the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in 2025. He emphasized the importance of Trkiye's participation in the European Union's defense and security initiatives, particularly the SAFE (Security and Defence of Europe) mechanism.
Fidan spoke of a new strategic landscape emerging globally and across Europe. He stressed that the European Union would be incomplete without Trkiye, especially under current circumstances, and vice versa. Fidan called for advancing the EU and Trkiye's integration process without delay or excuses, expressing the Turkish government's commitment to this goal and welcoming political will from European leaders.
On economic and defense cooperation, Fidan mentioned that Trkiye and Finland are working to enhance economic ties, with bilateral trade expected to reach about $1.8 billion in 2024. The countries are ready to cooperate more closely in information technology and renewable energy, with the Arctic region identified as a potential area for collaboration. Fidan recalled the 'Defense Industry Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding' signed in June, signaling a new chapter in joint production, technology sharing, and capability development.
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen praised Trkiye's contributions to European and transatlantic security. Valtonen commended Trkiye's position on the Russia-Ukraine war and its role in mediating peace. She expressed Finland's support for Trkiye's future EU membership and its involvement in joint defense initiatives, including the EU's SAFE program.
The ministers also addressed developments in Gaza. Fidan reported that approximately 250 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks since a ceasefire was declared. Despite the challenges, he expects the ceasefire to hold and progress to the next phase, urging the international community to fulfill its responsibilities. Valtonen reiterated Finland's commitment to a two-state solution based on international law for both Gaza and the West Bank.
Fidan also addressed the Finnish parliament and met with Speaker Jussi Halla-aho, as noted by a Turkish Foreign Ministry post on Trkiye's social media platform NSosyal.