Newsletters
Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen said it is in the United States’ own interest to remain in NATO, amid growing discussions about a possible U.S. withdrawal from the alliance.
“It is not only important for us European countries that the U.S. remains in NATO, but it is also in the U.S.’ own interest to stay in NATO and play an important role, because ultimately we all have shared security interests that we must protect,” Berendsen told Turkish news agency Anadolu.
He made the remarks in an interview covering Türkiye-Netherlands relations, the 2026 NATO Summit in Ankara, and regional and global developments.
Berendsen said relations between Türkiye and the Netherlands are strong, noting he chose Türkiye as one of his first foreign visits since taking office about six weeks ago.
He said the visit reflects the importance the Netherlands places on ties with Türkiye, adding that as a NATO ally, Türkiye plays a key role in security and cooperation.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Thursday met with his Dutch counterpart Berendsen. No further details of the meeting have been provided.
Berendsen said the Netherlands remains the largest foreign investor in Türkiye, highlighting significant business opportunities between the two countries.
He added that highly skilled professionals from both nations work in each other’s markets, strengthening economic ties.
He also emphasized the role of Turkish-Dutch citizens, describing them as respected, hardworking and talented, and said they contribute positively to bilateral relations.
Speaking on NATO, Berendsen said Türkiye plays a vital role within the alliance.
“The last NATO Summit was held in The Hague in the Netherlands. The next NATO Summit will be in Ankara, which is very important and shows Türkiye’s importance within NATO,” he said.
He added that demonstrating unity will be the central theme of the upcoming summit.
“At the same time, as European countries, we must respond to the issue of burden-sharing within NATO and create a strong European pillar in which both the Netherlands and Türkiye play important roles. I also believe that Türkiye plays a solid, highly valuable and important role as a strategic and strong regional power.”
Berendsen recalled that the 2025 summit focused on defense spending and the Russian threat on NATO’s eastern flank.
He added that Türkiye’s role on the southern flank, particularly in counterterrorism, must also be reflected in future discussions.
Addressing concerns about a potential U.S. withdrawal, Berendsen said NATO and the United States remain essential for his country’s security.
He noted that European countries are working to address U.S. concerns about burden-sharing and increasing defense contributions.
“We are always ready to address any concerns,” he said.
“At the same time, it is not only important for us European countries that the U.S. remains in NATO, it is also in the U.S.’ own interest to stay in NATO and play an important role, because ultimately we all have shared security interests that we must protect.”
Berendsen said one of the main concerns regarding the temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran is the risk of renewed escalation.
1 min read
He warned that tensions could rise again and said it remains unclear whether stability can be maintained.
He also pointed to Iran’s “attacks on countries that are not parties to the conflict but are being drawn into the crisis.”
He added that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz pose economic risks, particularly for Europe, due to their impact on energy prices.
Berendsen said many countries share similar concerns and stressed the need for coordinated international efforts.
“What is important for us is to apply pressure together with international partners to reduce tensions and ensure the creation of a lasting plan for the future that includes regional actors,” he said.
He also expressed concern over the lack of a concrete roadmap and said any future plan should include protections for the Iranian people.
Berendsen said that despite the ongoing U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict, attention must remain on Gaza and the West Bank.
“We need international pressure to ensure humanitarian aid and support can reach Gaza and the West Bank. Violence by settlers in the West Bank is a concern for us,” he said.
He also raised concerns about escalating tensions in Lebanon, noting the impact on refugees and the country’s already fragile situation.
Berendsen added that the Netherlands continues to monitor global crises closely, including the Russia-Ukraine war, which he described as a significant security risk for Europe.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
