Erdogan says NATO remains central to Turkey’s security strategy

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Turkey’s NATO membership continues to be a core part of the country’s security approach as regional tensions persist. He made the remarks during a press conference in Ankara, where he also pointed to the connection between security policy and economic stability.

Erdogan’s comments come as Turkey navigates a difficult regional environment shaped by shifting alliances, conflict risks and ongoing diplomatic pressure. His government has long portrayed NATO as a strategic shield while also balancing ties with neighboring powers and major global partners.

The statement underscores Ankara’s effort to frame alliance membership as more than a military issue, linking it to broader national resilience. It also reflects Turkey’s continued bid to position itself as an essential player in both regional diplomacy and Western security structures.