The historic partnership between the United Kingdom and Turkey has marked a significant shift in their strategic relationship at this week's NATO Summit in Ankara. In a major development that underscores growing cooperation between European allies, London and Ankara have formally established a new Security and Defence Partnership to enhance Euro-Atlantic security in an increasingly complex global landscape.
The ambitious partnership will institutionalise and deepen bilateral consultations on key politico-military security and defence policy aspects. These include enhanced deterrence and defence strategies, military cooperation, advancements in the defence industry and technology, addressing cyber security and hybrid threats, counter-terrorism efforts, strengthening resilience and civil preparedness, and exploring collaboration in space.
This agreement comes as both the UK and Turkey acknowledge their distinct contributions to the security of the Euro-Atlantic region. Built on principles of Allied solidarity and shared responsibility, the partnership reaffirms their joint commitment to taking on greater responsibility for building a more robust Europe within a stronger NATO framework. Both nations are increasing their defence expenditure and intensifying cooperation on delivering the capabilities essential for the Alliance, while maintaining strong transatlantic ties.
The new partnership signifies a strengthening of the UK's defence diplomacy and its role within NATO, particularly with Turkey situated at a critical geopolitical crossroads. The Foreign Office will continue to assess travel advice for Turkey, which remains a popular destination for British nationals. By fostering regional stability, the security cooperation aimed at through this Partnership could have broader implications for British interests and citizens travelling in the area.
The signing of this Partnership serves to reaffirm the deep commitment of both the UK and Turkey to each other's defence and to the foundational principles of the North Atlantic Treaty. It highlights a shared vision for a more secure future, with practical steps being taken to achieve enhanced collective defence capabilities and address modern security challenges collaboratively.