Brussels: Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot emphasized Trkiye's crucial role in Europe's security framework, expressing a desire to deepen economic and strategic ties between Belgium and Trkiye. "There is no possibility to discuss any European security architecture without Trkiye in it," Prevot stated.
According to Anadolu Agency, Prevot highlighted Trkiye's progress in reducing poverty and improving living standards, noting its significant geopolitical presence. He pointed to the historic relationship between Belgium and Trkiye, mentioning the first friendship treaty with the Ottoman Empire in 1838 and Belgium's early representation at the Sultan's court in Istanbul.
Prevot also discussed the upcoming Economic Mission to Trkiye, led by Belgian Queen Mathilde, scheduled for May 10-14. He described it as an opportunity to strengthen partnerships in business, academia, and institutions, with an estimated 400 participants. The mission aims to enhance trade cooperation and includes plans to sign around 40 agreements covering social security, transport, port management, logistics, aerospace, and defense.
Prevot emphasized Trkiye's importance as Belgium's fifth-largest export market outside the EU and called for increased Turkish investments in Belgium, particularly in the biopharmaceutical sector. He noted Trkiye's 300% growth in the defense sector over the past decade and stressed the need to explore new opportunities in the dredging sector, energy transition, offshore industry, and digital assets.
Addressing European security challenges, Prevot rejected comparisons of Trkiye with Russia and China, asserting that Trkiye, as a NATO ally and EU candidate, should not be contained. He advocated for modernizing the Customs Union between Ankara and the EU to meet future economic challenges.
Prevot acknowledged Trkiye's strategic role within the security context, citing its mediation efforts in Ukraine and stance on Middle East tensions. He emphasized the importance of a rules-based order and Trkiye's responsibility as a NATO ally on the southeastern flank.
He also highlighted Belgium's influence within European institutions and its role as a gateway to the European market for Trkiye, emphasizing the potential for Belgian and Turkish investment collaboration.
Prevot received Anadolu's book, "The Evidence," documenting Israel's war crimes in Gaza, and declared the situation unacceptable. He reiterated Belgium's support for South Africa's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.