By Zehra Nur Duz
ANKARA (AA) – The Turkish president on Friday stressed the importance of NATO for the security of Europe amid Russia’s war on Ukraine.
"NATO is the cornerstone of European security. We have seen this very clearly. Turkiye is an indispensable ally for ensuring regional security," Erdogan told reporters during his return flight from Brussels where he attended extraordinary NATO summit on Thursday.
Erdogan said he will meet with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday, and may hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin this weekend or early next week to assess results of Thursday’s NATO summit.
“Amid war, many big companies are leaving Russia, and Turkiye's doors are wide open,” said Erdogan.
On the French president's 'NATO is brain dead' comments, Erdogan said: “That was an unfortunate statement. President [Emanuel] Macron is one of the most active leaders in NATO.”
Dispelling concerns over food shortages due to the war, Erdogan said: "We’re taking all kinds of measures for food security. There will be no problems with food access during the holy month of Ramadan."
On talks with the US about F-16 jets, he said the US is showing a positive approach on aircraft modernization and purchases of new fighter jets.
On bilateral relations with Israel, Erdogan said Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett may visit Turkiye, a visit that may pave the way for a new process in bilateral relations.
Cooperation over natural gas may emerge as a key step in developing bilateral ties with Israel, Erdogan added.