Istanbul: Belgium views Trkiye as a crucial strategic NATO ally and the "guardian of the southeast flank of the European continent," Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot stated in a press briefing in Istanbul. Prevot emphasized Trkiye's significant geopolitical position and military capabilities, highlighting its indispensable role for Europe and NATO.

According to Anadolu Agency, Prevot remarked on Trkiye's status as the second-largest army within NATO, underscoring its strategic importance. He commended Trkiye's long-term defense investments, noting a substantial increase in military spending over the past decade. Prevot's comments followed questions from Anadolu regarding Trkiye's potential to enhance European defense as the US considers adjusting its military presence in Europe.

Prevot reassured that Belgium is not currently concerned about a potential US military withdrawal, as Washington's strategic reorientation has been discussed for years. He suggested that such changes would likely involve negotiations with other governments.

Moreover, Prevot mentioned Belgium's commitment to increasing military spending, having achieved NATO's 2% of GDP benchmark last year, to remain a reliable NATO partner. He also addressed Trkiye-EU relations, advocating for a revision of the Trkiye-EU Customs Union to reflect modern economic realities, criticizing the current framework as outdated. Prevot called for Brussels and Ankara to expedite efforts to update the agreement, which primarily focuses on goods and lacks provisions for services and modern dispute resolution mechanisms.