ISTANBUL

Türkiye’s progress in the defense industry, its pursuit of strategic autonomy, and its evolving role in global power dynamics were discussed on Friday at TRT World Forum 2025 in Istanbul.

Held under the theme “The Global Reset: From the Old Order to New Realities,” the forum brought together leaders and experts from around the world.

A session titled “Building Strategic Autonomy: Türkiye and the Global Defence Paradigm” focused on how Türkiye’s defense transformation aligns with shifting global security structures.

Panelists included Murat Yesiltas, director of foreign policy studies at the Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research (SETA); former British ambassador to Türkiye, France and the United States Peter Westmacott; former British ambassador to Libya Peter Millett; and former Italian ambassador to Ankara Carlo Marsili.

Yesiltas said the European Union has long sought greater strategic autonomy in defense, but that Russia’s war in Ukraine reignited debate across Europe over how to manage security threats from Moscow. He noted that Türkiye aims to build a functional partnership with Europe in defense cooperation, adding that the country’s efforts to strengthen its strategic capacity contribute directly to its foreign policy, counterterrorism goals and economic expansion.

Westmacott said the world is going through an increasingly unpredictable and dangerous period, stressing the need for European and smaller nations to enhance their defense capabilities. He noted that Türkiye had achieved a major milestone by boosting the domestic share of its defense production from 20% to 80%, and called on European allies to increase their support for NATO.

Millett praised Turkish companies for their ability to take calculated risks and said he observed in Ankara a broader strategic vision that links technology, defense, politics and economics to serve national interests. He said the United Kingdom could draw lessons from Türkiye’s approach, emphasizing the potential for cooperation not only in Libya but also in achieving a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and in rebuilding Syria.

Marsili said Türkiye is redefining its position within NATO by maintaining its commitments to the alliance while pursuing a more independent foreign policy that prioritizes national interests. He said this approach also strengthens collective defense.

He added that Türkiye plays a key role in securing the Black Sea and has simultaneously expanded its engagement with partners such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.