Türkiye's Erdoğan meets Slovak president on NATO summit sidelines

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan met with Slovak President Peter Pellegrini on Thursday on the sidelines of the 36th NATO Heads of State and Government Summit in Ankara, discussing bilateral ties and regional security developments, according to Türkiye's Communications Directorate. The meeting took place at the Presidential Complex as the two leaders explored opportunities to enhance cooperation between their countries.

Economic and transport cooperation

During the talks, Erdoğan stressed the importance of intensifying efforts to achieve mutual trade and investment targets between the two nations. He noted that Türkiye and Slovakia should expand their collaboration, particularly in the transport and energy sectors, to better utilize existing cooperation frameworks. The Communications Directorate shared details of the discussion on NSosyal, highlighting Ankara's commitment to deepening economic partnerships with Bratislava.

European defense capabilities

The Turkish president also emphasized that initiatives to bolster Europe's defense capabilities should be structured to complement NATO's existing architecture rather than duplicate or undermine it. This position reflects Türkiye's long-standing view that European strategic autonomy must remain anchored within the transatlantic alliance. The two leaders exchanged views on the evolving security landscape on the continent amid ongoing challenges.

Regional conflicts and diplomacy

On regional issues, Erdoğan stated that Türkiye continues intensive diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the wars involving Iran and Ukraine while simultaneously working to establish peace and stability in Gaza. He highlighted the humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian territory as a priority for Ankara's foreign policy agenda. The meeting occurred as NATO leaders gathered in the Turkish capital to address collective defense concerns and emerging global threats.