08.07.2026 10:00
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte thanked host Turkey and the people of Ankara on the second day of the NATO Summit held in Ankara. Stating that the summit required a major logistical organization, Rutte said, "I thank the people of beautiful Ankara. I know it hasn't been easy for the people. I am grateful for their patience."
Speaking on the second day of the 36th NATO Summit hosted by Turkey, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised Ankara's successful organization.
While Ankara hosted dozens of heads of state and government for two days, security measures were raised to the highest level, traffic regulations were implemented on many streets and routes, and some parks and roads were temporarily closed. Thousands of personnel worked in coordination as part of the summit's organization, which drew the world's attention.
"I THANK THE PEOPLE OF BEAUTIFUL ANKARA"
Speaking at a press conference, Rutte began his remarks by thanking the people of Ankara. "I thank the people of beautiful Ankara," said Rutte, emphasizing that hosting such a major international event involves a significant logistical burden.
"I KNOW IT HASN'T BEEN EASY FOR THE PUBLIC"
Acknowledging that the security measures and traffic regulations in the capital affected citizens, Rutte stated: "I am aware of the logistics of holding such an organization in your capital." "I know it hasn't been easy for the public. I am grateful for their patience."
ANKARA HOSTED WORLD LEADERS
Within the framework of the NATO Summit, U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, and leaders of other NATO member countries gathered in Ankara.
On the first day of the summit, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his wife Emine Erdoğan hosted a reception at the Presidential Complex in honor of the leaders and their spouses. On the second day, leaders convened in critical sessions addressing defense spending, NATO's new security strategy, support for Ukraine, and regional developments.
Throughout the summit, Rutte emphasized in his statements that Russia remains a long-term threat, that support for Ukraine will continue, and that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons.