08.07.2026 09:40
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, who arrived in Ankara for the NATO Summit, stated that European and US defense industry cooperation is increasing and emphasized that a strong NATO is also in the interest of the US. In response to a question about Iran, Jetten said, "It is very important that we continue to work towards a diplomatic solution."
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten said, "European and American defense industry companies are working in closer cooperation. A stronger NATO alliance is also in the interests of the United States."
On the second day of the 36th NATO Summit of Heads of State and Government, leaders are convening in Ankara. During the summit, topics such as defense spending, the war in Iran, European security, and the future of the alliance are being discussed, and leaders made assessments to the press before the meetings.
"COMMITMENTS SHOWN TO BE FULFILLED"
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten delivered important messages regarding the strengthening of Europe's defense capacity and the future of NATO. Noting that the NATO Summit held in The Hague last year was historic, Jetten stated that this year it was shown that the commitments made were fulfilled. Emphasizing that Europe has become stronger, especially against threats originating from Russia, Jetten said he was pleased to meet with all allies in Ankara.
QUESTION TO JETTEN ABOUT 'IRAN'
In response to a question about developments in Iran and a possible ceasefire process, Jetten stated that this issue would not overshadow the summit and said, "It is very important that we continue to work for a diplomatic solution to the Iran war. Everyone is working hard on this, and we are confident we can reach a final agreement. I think last year, Europe showed that we can better protect our own continent and be a stronger force with greater unity."
"WE TRIPLED DEFENSE SPENDING"
Stating that Europe has strengthened its security by acting in unity over the past year, Jetten explained, "As you can see, we have tripled our defense spending. Many other countries have also increased it significantly, and in the last few days we have seen many agreements on military cooperation among European allies. This shows that a stronger Europe benefits all of us."
"A STRONGER NATO IS IN THE INTERESTS OF THE U.S."
When reminded of U.S. President Donald Trump's criticisms of European allies, Jetten stated that European countries are doing their part and said, "The steps we are taking are not only for Europe's security but also in the interest of the United States. European and American defense industry companies are working in closer cooperation. A stronger NATO alliance is also in the interests of the United States."
'NATO 3.0' GOAL
When reminded of Trump's statements regarding Greenland, Jetten said, "In the last few months, we have shown that we have the capacity to defend this continent ourselves, but of course with the help of the Americans, and we are redesigning NATO as NATO 3.0, and I think we are doing a great job."