Lithuanian FM: Turkey is our ally

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys called for closer EU-Turkey cooperation in the field of defense and the defense industry, stressing that Turkey is an ally.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Budrys highlighted the increasing security threats facing the EU and the pressure on European defense capabilities due to the war in Ukraine.

Budrys called for the inclusion of Turkey and Turkish defense companies in EU programs such as SAFE, stressing the need for 'inclusive' defense tools. He also expressed his gratitude for Turkey's role in protecting NATO's airspace, especially in the Baltic.

The Minister warned that Europe cannot achieve defense goals alone and denounced state protectionism.