Ankara: Ukraine and the Netherlands have formalized a defense cooperation agreement during the 36th NATO summit. The agreement was inked by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, as reported by an Anadolu correspondent. This development took place as President Zelenskyy engaged in a series of bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the NATO Summit Defense Industry Forum at the ATO Congresium in Ankara.
According to Anadolu Agency, alongside Prime Minister Jetten, President Zelenskyy conducted separate discussions with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal. A statement from Prime Minister Carney's office highlighted their dialogue on the recent ground developments and diplomatic efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Prime Minister Carney reaffirmed Canada's steadfast support for Ukraine, emphasizing the potential for enhancing defense industrial partnerships, including the co-development of drones.
The statement further detailed Prime Minister Carney's commitment to Ukraine's reconstruction, drawing on Canadian expertise in energy and infrastructure. He underscored Canada's backing of ongoing accountability measures, such as sanctions, and both leaders agreed to maintain "close and regular contact."
President Zelenskyy arrived in Ankara earlier, announcing on the social media platform X the importance of forthcoming work and the anticipation of a "strong and productive" summit. He stressed the urgency of decisions that would enhance protection for Ukrainians, bolster defense capabilities, and strengthen security cooperation among Ukraine, Europe, and the United States. President Zelenskyy revealed that nearly 20 bilateral meetings were on the agenda.
During his visit, President Zelenskyy also conferred with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Ankara. Their discussions focused on protecting Ukrainians from ballistic missile threats and the urgent need for missile deliveries for air defense systems. President Zelenskyy emphasized the critical importance of maximizing the functionality of every channel supporting air defense initiatives, both bilaterally and multilaterally.