Kocaeli:Trkiye and France have reached an agreement to strengthen their defense and security relations through a newly signed roadmap, as announced by the Turkish National Defense Ministry.

According to Anadolu Agency, the roadmap aims to build on mutual interests by institutionalizing existing cooperation between the two countries. It outlines plans for regular consultations on defense and security issues, with a focus on combating hybrid threats, sharing intelligence, and improving air defense interoperability.

The agreement also includes provisions for increased joint training, personnel exchange programs between military academies, and joint exercises involving land, naval, and air forces. Additionally, the two nations intend to develop joint projects in the defense industry, promote technology sharing, and enhance connections between their defense companies.

Meetings under this roadmap will be held alternately in Paris and Ankara, with the first meeting scheduled for the final quarter of 2026, pending mutual agreement.

In other developments, the Turkish National Defense Ministry spokesperson addressed the Strategic Political and Defense Committee meeting of the Mecca defense agreement in Riyadh on October 5. Discussions included regional developments and the formation of an alliance's secretariat, as well as measures for deploying military forces to Saudi Arabia, in line with constitutional and legislative requirements.

The spokesperson also criticized Israel's actions in the region, citing raids, detentions, and violations that contribute to regional tensions. He urged the international community to take decisive actions against Israeli policies that hinder peace and stability in the area.