The second day sessions of the NATO Defense Ministers Meeting began in Brussels, Belgium. The meeting included the participation of defense ministers, including Sweden, whose NATO membership application is ongoing.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg delivered the opening speech, highlighting the serious threat to Euro-Atlantic security posed by Russian President Vladimir Putin’s attacks on Ukraine. Stoltenberg emphasized the presence of over 40,000 soldiers under NATO’s direct command, with additional troops on high alert supported by air and sea capabilities.
The meeting also discussed plans for the defense of Europe and the evaluation of defense investments by NATO countries.
Türkiye’s Minister of National Defense, Yaşar Güler, represented the country at the Defense Ministers Meeting, which concludes today. Minister Güler participated in the family photo shoot alongside other defense ministers after the North Atlantic Council Meeting.
In a separate event, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited the Jagel Military Air Base, where the largest air defense exercise in NATO history, “Air Defender 2023,” is taking place. Chancellor Scholz received information about the exercise, inspected a Eurofighter fighter plane cockpit, and took a photo with NATO soldiers. In a press release, Scholz emphasized the readiness of NATO partners to defend every inch of territory and the importance of the exercise in showcasing their preparedness.