Belgian Minister: Türkiye Is a Wise and Strong NATO Ally
At the heart of the IDEF 2025 exhibition in Istanbul, Belgian Defense Minister Ludivine Dedonder underscored Türkiye’s strategic role within NATO, describing the country as both “wise and strong.” In an exclusive interview with Anadolu Agency, Dedonder emphasized Türkiye’s growing defense capacity, diplomatic credibility, and technological potential — all vital for collective European and transatlantic security.
Türkiye’s Strategic Weight in NATO Recognized
Belgium’s defense chief called Türkiye “an essential and highly capable partner” whose contributions have expanded beyond regional defense. Highlighting Türkiye’s location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Dedonder stressed that Ankara holds a “decisive position in NATO’s deterrence and defense posture.” Her remarks come amid broader NATO discussions to deepen collective defense mechanisms in Eastern Europe, the Black Sea, and the Eastern Mediterranean — all regions where Türkiye plays an irreplaceable role.
Türkiye’s Defense Industry: A Growing Force
Dedonder praised Türkiye’s evolving defense industrial base, stating that its domestic innovation — particularly in drones, air defense systems, and secure communication — is attracting increasing attention from NATO allies. “We see how much effort Türkiye invests in developing indigenous defense capabilities. This not only strengthens NATO but also brings resilience to the alliance,” she noted.
Türkiye’s commitment to self-reliance through domestic systems like **Bayraktar drones**, **Korkut air defense**, and **TF-X KAAN** next-generation fighter jets was mentioned as evidence of this trajectory. These platforms not only provide Türkiye with strategic depth but are also reshaping interoperability standards among NATO partners.
IDEF 2025: A Platform for Strategic Collaboration
IDEF 2025 provided the backdrop for the Belgian delegation’s visit. Minister Dedonder highlighted the value of such forums for fostering bilateral and multilateral defense ties. “IDEF is not only an expo; it is a venue where technologies, doctrines, and alliances converge,” she said, adding that she was particularly impressed by the advanced systems exhibited by Turkish firms like ASELSAN, TUSAŞ, ROKETSAN, and HAVELSAN.
She emphasized Belgium’s openness to exploring defense cooperation with Türkiye in fields like cyber defense, AI-supported command systems, and logistics. Dedonder also noted the importance of expanding joint exercises under NATO frameworks to improve readiness and synchronization.
Diplomatic Tone Reflects NATO’s Renewed Unity
The Belgian minister’s remarks reflect a wider trend among NATO member states to recognize Türkiye’s indispensability, especially amid new geopolitical realities. With Finland and Sweden entering the alliance, and NATO’s focus shifting eastward, Türkiye’s central role in early warning systems, forward deployment, and energy security corridors is increasingly visible.
Dedonder concluded her statement by reaffirming Belgium’s belief in “cooperation over division” and praised Türkiye for demonstrating both “strategic patience and operational effectiveness” during regional and international crises.
Conclusion: Türkiye’s NATO Future Looks Strategic and Resilient
Minister Dedonder’s visit to IDEF 2025 and her statements mark a clear diplomatic gesture recognizing Türkiye as a robust NATO pillar. As tensions rise globally and alliances are tested, Türkiye’s defense industry, military capabilities, and diplomatic leverage will likely remain key determinants of NATO’s agility and cohesion.
“Türkiye is not only a wise and strong ally; it is a forward-looking one.” — Ludivine Dedonder, Belgian Defense Minister
The statement aligns with a growing consensus among NATO members that Türkiye must be engaged not just as a geographical ally, but as a full-spectrum contributor in innovation, resilience, and regional stability.