Ankara: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Tuesday described Trkiye as a 'staunch and capable ally,' following his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the Turkish capital of Ankara. The discussions focused on various strategic issues, highlighting the importance of Trkiye's role within the alliance.

According to Anadolu Agency, Rutte emphasized the potential for progress in Ukraine, stating that there is a 'real window of opportunity for progress towards peace.' This statement was made ahead of the informal NATO Foreign Ministers' Meeting scheduled for May 14-15 in Antalya, a Turkish resort city in the southern Mediterranean. Rutte expressed his satisfaction in meeting Erdogan, noting the importance of their discussions in preparation for the upcoming NATO Summit, aimed at strengthening the alliance.

During the meeting, Erdogan reiterated Trkiye's commitment to NATO. To demonstrate this, he announced that Trkiye would take command of the NATO Kosovo Force once again. This reaffirmation of Trkiye's dedication to the alliance was confirmed by Trkiye's Communications Directorate, underscoring the country's strategic role and involvement in NATO operations.