Today marks the 75th anniversary of NATO's founding, an alliance that has proven exceedingly important for global security and peace throughout history. Unfortunately, this anniversary comes at a time when significant hostilities are unfolding, creating considerable insecurity on the international stage.
Ukraine, in particular, constitutes a huge challenge that requires immediate attention. All member states should assess their ability to offer assistance to Ukraine, especially at this stage when Russia's aggression tends to heighten.
For this reason, I had a one-on-one meeting yesterday with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, during which we assessed the possibilities for providing substantial, useful, and effective assistance to Ukraine. It is extremely important to support Ukraine, as the fundamental value on which not only NATO but also the global security architecture is based is at stake right now, namely full adherence to international law, commitment to respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as combating any tendency towards revisionism.
I also had the opportunity yesterday to meet with my Turkish counterpart, with whom we discussed the issues on NATO's agenda, as well as matters regarding our bilateral relations, particularly in light of our two leaders’ meeting to be held next month in Türkiye.
Thank you very much.
April 4, 2024