Ankara: Czech President Peter Pavel on Tuesday called upon European NATO member countries to concentrate on strengthening their own defense capabilities and enhancing both decision-making processes and flexibility. Pavel emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach among allies to foster 'calmer relations' in the current global environment, speaking at the 'Allies in Ankara' program. This event was held on the sidelines of a NATO summit in Turkey's capital, organized in collaboration with Trkiye's Communications Directorate, the Munich Security Conference, and the Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research (SETA), an Ankara-based think tank.

According to Anadolu Agency, Pavel highlighted the need for officials to set aside emotions during communication. He pointed out that the Czech Republic, situated at the center of both the EU and NATO, does not directly feel security threats, which can make it challenging to convey these threats to its citizens. Nonetheless, Pavel reassured that the Czech Republic remains in solidarity with its allies. He noted the presence of numerous Czech companies in the defense industry, highlighting the potential for expanded cooperation with other European nations.

Pavel expressed concern over a recent trend within NATO, where one ally tends to bear a disproportionate share of defense spending and responsibility, diverging from the alliance's founding philosophy. The ongoing two-day NATO summit in Ankara is assembling leaders from the alliance's 32 members and key partners to deliberate on Europe's defense capacity, NATO's defense spending targets, military modernization, and sustained support for Ukraine.