Ankara: The Turkish Defense Minister affirmed his country’s readiness to participate in the Gaza task force and to continue supporting Ukraine within the framework of NATO. Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Gler affirmed his country’s welcome of the truce in Gaza, considering it a step towards a just and lasting two-state solution, noting that Turkey continues to send humanitarian aid and is ready to participate in a multinational task force to support stability in the Gaza Strip.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, in a press statement issued by the Ministry of Defense on Thursday, Gler stressed that Turkey also supports ceasefire efforts in Ukraine and diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive peace, pointing to Ankara’s continued contributions within the framework of NATO to support Ukraine’s security and stability.

The minister’s statements came after his participation in the meetings of NATO Defense Ministers and the Ukraine Contact Group held in Brussels, where member states discussed strengthening deterrence, collective defense, and coordinating military support to Ukraine.

Gler pointed out that Turkey is one of the largest contributors to NATO forces, stressing the continuation of efforts to modernize the Turkish army and provide it with the latest defense systems, in addition to Ankara’s commitment to achieving the 5% defense spending target agreed upon by the allies.

He added that the Turkish delegation stressed during the meetings the importance of Turkey’s full participation in European defense initiatives, including the European Security Action Framework (SAFE), considering that Europe’s security is inseparable from the security of Turkey and the region.

Gler noted that he held bilateral and trilateral meetings with the NATO Secretary General and the Defense Ministers of the United Kingdom, Bulgaria, and Romania, during which they discussed strengthening defense cooperation.