In a push to deepen economic and defense ties, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has emphasized the potential benefits of enhanced cooperation between Türkiye and the United States. Speaking at the “100 Years of Friendship Gala” in New York, Erdoğan underscored the importance of closer dialogue between the two nations, especially given the current global conflicts and crises.
Erdoğan highlighted the positive outcomes that have emerged from the collaboration of the two NATO allies, particularly in Middle Eastern affairs. He expressed a strong commitment to further strengthening coordination with Washington, suggesting that expanding partnerships in sectors such as nuclear energy, liquefied natural gas, civil aviation, high technology, and defense could yield significant advantages for both countries.
Türkiye’s burgeoning defense industry was a focal point of Erdoğan’s address. He noted that the country’s defense exports have dramatically increased from approximately $248 million two decades ago to over $10 billion today. This growth, he asserted, positions Türkiye to soon rank among the world’s top ten defense exporters.
Moreover, Erdoğan invited US investors to consider opportunities in Türkiye, citing new incentives aimed at attracting foreign investment. He announced a new investment initiative supported by what he termed a competitive incentive framework, aiming to boost economic collaboration.
US Senator Chris Coons also spoke at the event, highlighting the enduring partnership between the two nations and the critical role that business and entrepreneurial ties have played in reinforcing their relationship. The gala event, which marked a century of diplomatic and economic relations, convened senior officials and business leaders from both countries to discuss future cooperation.