Erdogan: Israel's security depends on the stability of its neighbours

(Patria) - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated today after the NATO summit in The Hague that Turkey welcomes the achieved ceasefire between Israel and Iran and called on both sides to unconditionally respect it, emphasizing the role of US President Donald Trump.

Erdogan said that Ankara has been involved in intensive diplomatic efforts since the beginning of the hostilities and warned that conflicts pose a serious risk to the entire region.

– Like all countries in the region, Israel's security depends on the stability and peace of its neighbours – Erdogan said, emphasizing that Israeli attacks on Gaza represent a humanitarian catastrophe that “no person with a conscience can ignore”.

He reiterated that lasting solutions with Iran are possible exclusively through diplomacy and dialogue and expressed hope that the current cessation of hostilities will grow into lasting peace.

Speaking about the European defence industry, Erdogan emphasized the importance of participation of NATO partners outside the EU, arguing that it would be in the interest of the entire continent. He also confirmed progress in negotiations with London and Berlin on the Eurofighter program, as well as positive signals from Washington regarding the delivery of F-35 fighter jets, for which Turkey has already paid more than a billion dollars.

– Mr. Trump has shown good intentions in this regard – he said.

Erdogan also highlighted the importance of removing all obstacles in the trade of defence equipment among NATO allies and reiterated the stance that terrorism can only be defeated with sincere allied solidarity.

Finally, he confirmed that Turkey continues its diplomatic pressure for peace in Ukraine, expressing confidence that a new opportunity for a ceasefire and a lasting solution is opening up.