Turkish, Belgian defense chiefs sign cooperation deal

Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler welcomed Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken to Ankara on Wednesday for high-level talks aimed at deepening bilateral defense ties. Francken was received with a military ceremony at the Turkish National Defense Ministry, where the national anthems of both nations were played before he inspected an honour guard.

Closed-door discussions and signing

Following the formal reception, the two ministers held closed-door discussions, according to a statement from the Turkish Defense Ministry. After their talks, a letter of intent was signed between Türkiye’s National Defense Ministry, the Presidency of Defense Industries, and Belgium’s Defense Ministry. The signing ceremony was attended by Haluk Gorgun, Türkiye’s Defense Industries Secretary, and Belgian National Armaments Director Lt. Gen. Bernard Phaleg.

Strengthening defense ties

The agreement marks a concrete step in expanding cooperation between the two NATO allies. Belgium has shown growing interest in Turkish defense products, including unmanned aerial vehicles and naval platforms. The visit coincides with a larger Belgian economic mission led by Queen Mathilde, which has already resulted in several trade and investment agreements. Turkish officials expressed hope that the defense industry memorandum would pave the way for joint projects and technology sharing.