Estonian Prime Minister Kristan Michal assessed the strategic partnership with Turkey at the 36th NATO Heads of State and Government Summit in Ankara. Michal said Estonia is "probably the best partner" for Turkey among the Nordic and Baltic countries.
Stressing that the summit, held on Tuesday, July 7, was crucial in demonstrating allied unity and solidarity, the Estonian prime minister said, "The Ankara summit carries great importance in sending the message that allies stand together."
Michal recalled that Estonia joined NATO in 2004 and participated in the alliance summit held in Turkey that same year, adding that this year's meeting also held historical significance for his country. The summit's key priorities include increasing defense spending, sustaining support for Ukraine, and strengthening the defense industry.
Defense Industry Cooperation Expands
Highlighting the expanding defense industry cooperation between the two countries, Prime Minister Michal said, "We have excellent cooperation with the Turkish defense industry, and they also manufacture in Estonia. That’s why I can say Estonia is a good partner for Turkey."
Michal stated that Estonia has become a "reference country" for Turkish armored vehicles, noting that the Estonian armed forces use armored vehicles from Nurol Makina and ARCA Defense. He said they are very satisfied with the performance of these vehicles, which are used in a wide variety of tasks.
Michal also added that ARCA Defense will produce 155-millimeter ammunition in the Estonian defense industry park.
The Estonian prime minister thanked Turkey for its contributions to the air security of Estonia and the Baltic countries. "Given our country's size, we are probably the best partner for Turkey among the Nordic and Baltic countries," he said.
Michal said the Ankara summit would go down in history as an event that demonstrated NATO allies' "unity" and "strength," and sent a message to adversaries, including Russia, that opposing the alliance would be a mistake. The prime minister added that expectations from the summit were high.
