Belgium and Turkey Sign Multiple Defense Agreements

According to a report by Reference News Network on May 16, Agence France-Presse reported on May 13 that after high-level talks in Ankara with Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler, Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken announced to AFP that Belgium and Turkey have signed nine defense agreements.

Francken stated after his talks with Güler, “Today we have indeed taken a big step.” This meeting is part of a four-day economic delegation visit led by Queen Mathilde of Belgium.

The report noted that this initiative comes at a time when European countries are seeking to revitalize their defense industries in response to Russia's "threat" and the risk of the United States potentially withdrawing from NATO.

Francken made the remarks at a defense and aerospace event held at the residence of the Belgian ambassador to Turkey. His office stated in a release that six of the defense industry agreements were signed in Ankara on the 13th, while three others were signed in Istanbul on the 11th, but the statement did not disclose specific amounts.

The statement also pointed out, “Thanks to a high-level letter of intent signed by the two defense ministers, Belgium and Turkey have taken an important step towards building a long-term strategic defense partnership.”

Belgium also expressed support for Turkey's participation in the EU's "European Security Action" tool, which is a €150 billion defense financing program aimed at enhancing Europe's defense capabilities.

Francken stated that the discussions involved investments and "cooperation" between Belgium and Turkey, but did not disclose specific details, while expressing interest in purchasing Turkish drones. He claimed, “Yes, that would be very good.”

He told AFP, “Turkey is indeed a country with strong capabilities in the defense sector and is the second largest power within NATO. Therefore, it is clearly important to cooperate with their industry.” He also made it clear that the goal is to sign more contracts next year.

The letter of intent stipulates that the two countries will strengthen cooperation in military capability building and defense industry collaboration.

Belgium also agreed to allow Turkish officers to further their education at the Royal Military Academy in Brussels.

Francken stated in the release, “Turkey's strategic importance in the rearmament and strengthening of the defense industry in Europe is evident. Europe cannot ignore the enormous potential that exists here.”

He added, “Promoting industrial partnerships among NATO allies should be an important goal for the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, and this is also true for the EU. That is why Belgium advocates including Turkey in the future 'European Security Action' tool.” (Translated by Liu Zhuo)