Turkish FM Fidan says Europe must ensure its own security

(MENAFN) Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Monday emphasized that Europeans must assume responsibility for their own security, calling it “an existential need.”

“As Europeans, we are all in the same boat. Ensuring the safety and security of our own home is an existential necessity. We cannot delegate our own security to others,” Fidan said during an ambassadors’ conference in Lisbon.

He warned against fatalism in navigating a system he described as lacking sufficient guarantees for managing change responsibly. Highlighting rising protectionism, the increasing role of hard power, and deepening disputes, Fidan noted that the distinction between peace and war is becoming increasingly blurred.

Fidan also pointed out that modern threats extend far beyond traditional battlefields, with artificial intelligence and new technologies reshaping the nature of conflict. He stressed that those who combine technological innovation with strategic planning will gain decisive advantages.

Turning to the Middle East, Fidan described Gaza as “the region’s bleeding wound” and said Türkiye is ready to take responsibility for governance and reconstruction as the second phase of the October ceasefire approaches. He emphasized that any peace plan must lead to the creation of a sovereign Palestinian state, noting that violations of international law have spread from Gaza to Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and beyond.

“Recently, we have seen this instability take on a new form,” Fidan said, citing Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an example of actions that export instability by undermining regional territorial integrity.

He added that constructive engagement in Syria offers an opportunity to establish stability, which is essential for regional peace, socioeconomic recovery, and preventing irregular migration—benefits that also directly support Europe.

Fidan criticized the EU for excluding Türkiye from security and defense mechanisms despite formal commitments to cooperate with non-EU NATO allies. He attributed this to a few member states prioritizing narrow national agendas over Europe’s broader strategic interests.

Highlighting Türkiye’s strengths, he said the country’s demographic dynamism, economic potential, and security capabilities make it a key actor capable of accelerating the success story Europe needs.

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