Turkey Balances NATO Commitments and Regional Alliances Amid Strategic Shifts

Turkey reaffirmed its commitment to NATO while exploring relationships with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS nations. Defence Minister Yasar Guler emphasized Turkey's dual strategy, seeking to enhance NATO ties and diversifying regional partnerships. Discussions on F-16 procurements with the U.S. and possible normalization with Syria are ongoing.

Turkey's defence minister reiterated the nation's commitment to NATO responsibilities amid growing concerns from Western allies about Ankara's potential shift away from the West. President Erdogan recently expressed interest in joining the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), a bloc seen as a counterbalance to Western alliances.

In a written interview, Defence Minister Yasar Guler assured that Turkey's NATO membership does not hinder its development of relations with the SCO. 'Our priority is to fulfil our responsibilities to NATO and strengthen solidarity with our allies,' Guler emphasized.

Adding to the complexity of Turkey's foreign relations, Guler confirmed ongoing negotiations for procuring F-16 jets from the U.S. and highlighted Ankara's potential interest in Eurofighter Typhoon jets from European allies. These developments occur alongside Turkey's intention to normalize ties with Syria and enhance security cooperation with Iraq.

(With inputs from agencies.)