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Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna highlighted Türkiye's significant contribution to European security during the NATO informal foreign ministers' meeting in Antalya, emphasizing the country's strategic position in a complex region.
"Türkiye plays a very important role in the region and in guaranteeing European security," Tsahkna told Anadolu Agency ahead of the NATO gathering at the NEST Congress Center in Antalya.
The Estonian minister noted the long history between the two nations, mentioning that many Estonian families frequently visit Türkiye, describing it as "safe and very beautiful."
"Türkiye is our strategic partner in NATO. Bilaterally, Estonia has made many agreements for defense procurement. I think this is one of the biggest procurements in our history, including military vehicles and many other things," Tsahkna said.
He added that Estonia anticipates increased cooperation in the future, calling Türkiye "a reliable partner" at a time when Estonia "seriously needs very well-developed and reliable solutions at the military level."
Tsahkna stressed that European countries need to take more responsibility for their own security, clearly supporting recent calls from U.S. President Trump for increased European defense spending.
"The U.S. has taken too much responsibility in 'carrying the burden' in recent years, now we must take steps. In this context, I absolutely support President Trump's 'pressure.' Because it's good that all European countries and partners in NATO invest more in our region," he stated.
The Estonian diplomat praised Türkiye's position as "the strongest power in a very complex region" with ongoing situations in Gaza, Syria, and Iran.
"Türkiye plays a major role in maintaining balance, finding solutions, and fighting terrorism, and this is very important. Türkiye is truly protecting all of Europe," Tsahkna emphasized.
He also noted the importance of Türkiye-EU relations, stating that cooperation is at a good level, and mentioned Türkiye's significant role in the PKK terrorist organization's recent decision to dissolve and lay down arms, calling it "very good news."
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