In his speech on the second day of the informal meeting of NATO foreign ministers in the southern Turkish city of Antalya, Fidan noted that there are many crises and conflicts of concern to the alliance, explaining that the meeting will discuss ways to strengthen unity and solidarity within the alliance.
In the same context, Fidan emphasized that Turkey embraces the vision of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, saying, "We must establish an alliance-wide security network extending from Texas to Ankara." He explained that the meeting will also address ways to strengthen the European security architecture, as well as the pursuit of a lasting and just peace in Ukraine.
Fidan emphasized that Turkey has always supported the diplomatic process to achieve peace in Ukraine, adding, "After three years of suffering, we see a window of opportunity has opened. We hope that the Istanbul negotiations will lead to a new chapter."
He pointed out that the meeting will discuss how to support this process and enhance Euro-Atlantic security from a comprehensive perspective.
Meanwhile, the Turkish minister emphasized that terrorism remains a serious threat to the security of all allies, emphasizing the importance of discussing ways to strengthen solidarity within the alliance to combat terrorism through concrete steps. Fidan also emphasized that NATO, as the backbone of European and Atlantic security and defense, will remain the primary forum for consultation and coordination among allies on all security issues.
He added that today's meeting, along with the upcoming NATO summit in The Hague next month, will contribute to strengthening the fundamental character of the alliance. He noted that Turkey's hosting of today's meeting, as well as its hosting of the next summit in 2026, reflects its unwavering commitment to the alliance and the values it represents.
Antalya is hosting the informal meeting of NATO foreign ministers, attended by representatives from 32 countries.
On May 11, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed resuming direct negotiations with Ukraine without preconditions in Istanbul on May 15 and asked Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to host this new round.
President Erdoğan, for his part, affirmed Türkiye's readiness to host negotiations to achieve a just and lasting peace, while the Ukrainian government welcomed the move
