Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has confirmed that the Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet agreement with Britain will enhance strategic relations between the two nations. This announcement was made during a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Ankara.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Erdogan and Starmer signed a cooperation agreement regarding the Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets at the Presidential Complex in Ankara. The signing followed a closed-door bilateral meeting, succeeded by an expanded session attended by delegations from both countries. The executive arrangements for the supply of the jets were finalized during these discussions.

Erdogan highlighted that this cooperation marks a new phase in the strategic relations between Turkey and the United Kingdom. He expressed optimism about future joint projects in the defense industry and emphasized the importance of the agreement as a sign of close alliance. Erdogan also revealed plans to increase trade volume with the UK, targeting $30 billion initially, and eventually $40 billion.

Additionally, Erdogan congratulated Prime Minister Starmer on the UK’s decision to recognize the State of Palestine, describing it as a courageous step towards a two-state solution. He stressed the shared responsibility to maintain the ceasefire in Gaza and urged restraint from the Israeli government.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, at the joint press conference, announced a strategic partnership and the first framework for bilateral cooperation between the two countries. He highlighted that the Eurofighter Typhoon agreement would enhance NATO security and elevate defense industry cooperation.

During his official visit to Turkey, Starmer inspected Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft at Murted Air Base in Ankara. Accompanied by British Defense Secretary John Healey and RAF Commander General Harvey Smith, he conversed with pilots and the technical team. Three Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets had arrived from Britain at the start of his visit, underscoring the significance of this defense collaboration.