07.07.2026 14:20
One of the most notable figures in the new era of Dutch politics is Ankara-born Dilan Yeşilgöz. Having left Turkey with her family at the age of 7, Yeşilgöz returned to her birthplace 42 years later, this time as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of the Netherlands.
The new government formed in the Netherlands after months of coalition talks has officially taken office. One of the most notable figures in the new cabinet is Ankara-born Dilan Yeşilgöz. Yeşilgöz, who left Turkey with her family at a young age and settled in the Netherlands, now serves as the country's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. Yeşilgöz came to Ankara, where she was born, after 42 years, this time with an official title.
SHE LEFT AT AGE 7, ROSE TO THE TOP OF THE COUNTRY
Dilan Yeşilgöz, born in the capital in 1977, moved to the Netherlands with her family when she was 7 years old. Building a new life there, Yeşilgöz became one of the most influential figures in Dutch politics over the years. Having previously served as Minister of Justice and Security and leading the VVD, Yeşilgöz has been appointed to one of the country's most critical positions in the new cabinet.
WILL OVERSEE DEFENSE POLICIES
Yeşilgöz, who began her duties with a swearing-in ceremony in The Hague, will serve as Deputy Prime Minister alongside the Ministry of Defense. In her new role, she will take on significant responsibilities in the Netherlands' defense strategies, NATO obligations, European security policies, and military support processes for Ukraine.
OFFICIAL VISIT TO ANKARA AFTER 42 YEARS
As part of her international engagements, Yeşilgöz came to Ankara for the NATO Summit. Arriving in Ankara with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, Yeşilgöz made an official visit to the city where she was born after 42 years, with the titles of Dutch Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense.
SHARED A MESSAGE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Before coming to Ankara, Yeşilgöz shared her excitement with a post on her social media account, saying, "For the NATO high-level, I am in Ankara. Security and economy go hand in hand. We are investing billions of dollars in our defense and closely cooperating with our allies. This is how we make the Netherlands safer and strengthen our economy! This means more jobs, more innovation, and more growth."