Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday declared the 2026 NATO summit in Ankara a success, describing it as a “historic” gathering that would help shape the alliance’s future amid growing security challenges across the Euro-Atlantic region.
Speaking at a news conference after the summit concluded, Erdogan said: “We have successfully concluded our NATO summit, which we hosted in our country for the second time in 22 years and for the first time in our capital, Ankara.”
He said the meeting was held at a critical time for regional security, adding: “This historic summit, which we hosted at a time when Euro-Atlantic security is being tested, has been conducted in a manner that will shape our common future.”
Erdogan also highlighted Türkiye’s military capabilities and defence industry, saying the country was ahead of many NATO allies in key areas. “Today, in terms of defense spending, military capabilities and the defense industry that underpins them, we are well ahead of many allies,” he said.