450 billion lira Eurofighter sale from the UK to Turkey: He gave the good news

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced the Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet deal with Turkey. Under the agreement, it was reported that Turkey will purchase 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets from the UK for 450 billion lira.

Highlighting the importance of the sale for the country's economy, Starmer stated, "This deal will provide new employment for 20,000 British workers. It is a major gain for British workers, our defense industry, and NATO security."

PRODUCTION FACILITIES TO BE ESTABLISHED IN FOUR CITIES

According to Starmer's statement, new production facilities will be established in the UK cities of Edinburgh, Warton, Bristol, and Salmesbury for the jet production process.

The British defense industry company BAE Systems will carry out the assembly of the jets to be sold to Turkey in the UK. The first delivery is planned for 2030.

REACTION FROM HUMAN RIGHTS ORGANIZATIONS

Despite the UK government describing the deal as "historic," human rights organizations have reacted to the decision.

Amnesty International UK Director Polly Truscott called on Prime Minister Starmer, stating, "While these multi-billion pound sales talks are ongoing, there is immense pressure on human rights in Turkey. The main opposition party is constantly being targeted. Presidential candidate and Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and his campaign director have been arrested on espionage charges."

Truscott stated that the UK should not place its commercial interests ahead of human rights violations.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DEMOCRACY WILL CONTINUE

Following the reactions, a spokesperson for the UK Prime Minister's Office stated, "We have discussed the arrests, including those of the Istanbul Mayor and protesters, with the Turkish government at many levels. The United Kingdom is firmly committed to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law."

TURKEY IS A KEY ALLY FOR NATO

Despite the criticisms, Keir Starmer emphasized Turkey's importance within NATO. Starmer said, "Located at the two ends of Europe, Turkey and the United Kingdom are of key importance in tackling the challenges of our time. This cooperation will enable our militaries to work more closely to protect our national interests."

Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets are currently in the inventories of countries such as Austria, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.

News Source: 12punto