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United States Permanent Representative to NATO Matthew Whitaker described Türkiye as an “important model ally,” saying other NATO members should follow Ankara’s example and emulate its contributions to the alliance.
“Türkiye is a truly important model ally that is already present in the region, spends its resources and possesses the necessary capabilities and defense industry,” Whitaker told Anadolu Agency (AA) during his visit to Türkiye.
“My message to other allies is: I wish they would see Türkiye as a model ally country and do what Türkiye has done for the past 70 years since joining the alliance,” he added.
Whitaker said his visit to Türkiye lasted around five days and included stops in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and Adana, where he held a series of meetings.
He described the trip as productive and praised the hospitality he experienced.
“The Turkish people were extremely kind and generous,” Whitaker said.
He also recalled meeting Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on May 16, saying the talks reflected the commitment between Washington and Ankara.
“Another reason I am here is to continue strengthening the NATO alliance and all activities in this region of the alliance. The visit was wonderful and I was truly pleased,” he said.
Whitaker described Türkiye’s role within NATO as “extremely important,” stressing that Ankara is not merely a beneficiary of alliance security but also contributes actively to operations and leadership missions.
He pointed to Türkiye’s role in NATO’s Kosovo Force (KFOR), currently commanded by a Turkish general.
“Türkiye is not just a country benefiting from NATO security,” Whitaker said. “We rely on Türkiye to lead at the table.”
Whitaker also highlighted the upcoming NATO Summit to be held in Türkiye on July 7-8, describing it as a key moment for the alliance.
“It will be a very important moment for the alliance,” he said.
“We expect a very successful summit for all NATO member states. In particular, this summit will highlight how important Türkiye is for the long-term success of this alliance.”
Whitaker said discussions would focus on strengthening NATO’s collective capabilities.
“There are many important issues on the table, but I think the main issue is ensuring that all 32 allies are capable and strong, and resetting NATO to its factory settings to return to its warrior roots,” he added.
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