Erdoğan speaks with Dutch Prime Minister Rutte: 'Unfortunately, terrorism is on Turkey's agenda'

President and AKP Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke at a joint press conference with Dutch Prime Minister Rutte.

Erdoğan said, "We expect support from the EU in terms of being fair in its relations with Turkey." Rutte, in his statement, said, "NATO's southern flank needs Turkey."

"WE EXPECT THE NETHERLANDS' SUPPORT"

Erdoğan stated the following:

"We reviewed the multi-dimensional cooperation between our countries. The Netherlands is the largest foreign investor in Turkey. Our entrepreneurs provide employment for approximately 80 thousand people. We expect the support of the Netherlands for the EU to handle its relations with Turkey with fairness.

We also exchanged views on developments, particularly regarding Gaza and Ukraine. Stopping the massacres and ensuring a permanent ceasefire are of great importance. We emphasized our expectations for steps to be taken for peace and stability in our contacts with the region.

"WE SACRIFICED THOUSANDS OF OUR CITIZENS"

The fight against terrorism was also one of the top priorities of our consultations. The heavy price Turkey has paid in the fight against separatist terrorism is evident. We have sacrificed thousands of our citizens, including children, women, civilians, and our security forces, in PKK attacks.

The NATO summit of heads of state and government and its preparations were also on our agenda. In this context, we shared with Mr. Rutte, who is a candidate for this position, what kind of qualities we would like to see in the new NATO Secretary General."

"UNFORTUNATELY, TERRORISM IS ON TURKEY'S AGENDA"

Dutch Prime Minister Rutte's statements were as follows:

"Turkey is a geopolitical actor. Turkey has a lot of influence. We talked about Gaza and Ukraine with you. We have a 100-year relationship with Turkey, and our labor history also spans 60 years. My candidacy for NATO Secretary General is on the table.

Turkey is the second-largest military power within NATO, and unfortunately, terrorism is on its agenda. We also discussed this issue. You said that you would like the new Secretary General to focus on these issues.

NATO's southern flank needs Turkey's leadership. You welcomed us very nicely. It was very meaningful, thank you."