London: Trkiye and the United Kingdom have signed a 'Strategic Partnership Framework Document', marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation in various domains through closer dialogue.
According to Anadolu Agency, the document was signed during a meeting between Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary Yvette Cooper in London. The Turkish Foreign Ministry shared a statement on the US social media platform X, detailing the framework's objectives.
The joint statement, available on the Turkish Foreign Ministry's official website, outlines that the Framework Document encompasses a broad spectrum of areas, including security, climate change, humanitarian development, and science and technology. It seeks to reinforce the strategic partnership between the two NATO allies and broaden the scope of cooperation through enhanced dialogue at both bilateral and multilateral levels.
The statement emphasizes that the framework "creates a strong basis to strengthen dialogue and co-operation between our two countries as NATO Allies and strategic partners who share an historic friendship, excellent bilateral relations and common perspectives on a wide range of international issues and global challenges, including a strong desire for security and stability in the Middle East."
The document also notes the shifting international order, marked by fragmentation and multipolarity, which poses increased risks for both Trkiye and the UK. It underscores the importance of deterrence and defense within NATO's Strategic Concept in maintaining Euro-Atlantic security.
'NATO, the bedrock of our security and collective defense, has increased its political and military relevance,' the statement added, highlighting the indispensable nature of strong transatlantic relations to peace and stability in Europe.
The framework aims to deepen collaboration between the UK and Trkiye across numerous areas, including global security, NATO coordination, defense and industry partnerships, counterterrorism, and humanitarian initiatives. It also extends joint efforts on climate change, energy security, and partnerships in science, technology, and innovation.
The joint statement reiterates the intention to boost bilateral trade and investment, with discussions on a "modernized Free Trade Agreement" designed to support mutual economic growth.
"The talks in London today underline that relations between the UK and Trkiye are rooted in strong economic and growth ties, a shared commitment to the defense of Euro-Atlantic security and enduring people-to-people links which continue to enhance mutual understanding and goodwill," the statement concluded.