Erdoğan, Meloni discuss defense ties and NATO summit

Yenişafak English AA
23:12, 03/07/2026, FridayU: Update: 23:15, 03/07/2026, Friday
AA
Erdoğan, Meloni discuss defense ties and NATO summit
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held a phone call to discuss bilateral relations and regional issues. Erdoğan said Ankara seeks closer cooperation with Italy, particularly in the defense industry, and expressed hope that next week’s NATO summit in Ankara will strengthen allied unity.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Friday held a phone call with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to discuss bilateral relations as well as regional and global issues, Türkiye's Communications Directorate said. During the call, Erdoğan said Türkiye is working to strengthen cooperation with Italy in all areas, particularly the defense industry, and stressed the importance of taking new steps to further boost bilateral ties. He also said Türkiye expects next week’s NATO leaders’ summit in Ankara to strengthen unity among allies.

Context of the call

The call comes amid heightened transatlantic tensions over burden-sharing and recent public disagreements between Trump and Meloni. Despite this, both leaders are expected to attend the July 7-8 summit, where defense spending, support for Ukraine, and industrial production will be key agenda items. Italy has been a key NATO ally in the Mediterranean, and its cooperation with Türkiye has grown in recent years, including in the defense industry and migration management.

Bilateral cooperation

Erdoğan’s remarks reflect Ankara’s broader strategy of strengthening ties with European NATO allies ahead of the summit. Türkiye and Italy have collaborated on defense projects, including naval platforms and aerospace technologies. The two countries also share interests in the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa. Turkish officials have expressed hope that the Ankara summit will serve as a platform to deepen such partnerships.

Comments
Avatar

Comments you share on our site are a valuable resource for other users. Please be respectful of different opinions and other users. Avoid using rude, aggressive, derogatory, or discriminatory language.

Page End
Turkey's Accumulation. International Media Group.

Welcome to the news source that sets Turkey's agenda! With its impartial, dynamic, and in-depth journalism, Yeni Şafak offers its readers an experience beyond current events. Get instant updates on what's happening in Turkey and worldwide, with news spanning a wide range from politics and economy to culture, arts, and sports. Access the most accurate information anytime, anywhere with its digital platforms; keep up with the agenda with Yeni Şafak!

Follow us on social media.
Download Mobile Apps

Carry the agenda in your pocket! With Yeni Şafak's mobile apps, get instant access to the latest news. A wide range of content, from politics to economy, sports to culture and arts, is at your fingertips! Easily download it on your iOS, Android, and Huawei devices to quickly access the most accurate information anytime, anywhere. Download now, don't miss out on developments around the world!

Categories
Albayrak Media

Maltepe Mah. Fetih Cad. No:6 34010 Zeytinburnu/İstanbul, Türkiyeiletisim@yenisafak.com+90 212 467 6515

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

The BIST name and logo are protected under a 'Protection Trademark Certificate' and cannot be used, quoted, or modified without permission. All information disclosed under the BIST name is fully copyrighted by BIST and may not be republished. Market data is provided by iDealdata Financial Technologies Inc. BIST stock data is delayed by 15 minutes.

© Net Medya, All right reserved. 2026