NATO
The situation along NATO’s south-eastern border and the
repeated violations of Turkey’s territory raise grave concern. As the
North Atlantic Council made clear on June 26 and October 3, we stand
with Turkey in the spirit of strong solidarity. We, the NATO foreign
ministers, declare our determination to deter threats to and defend
Turkey.
In response to Turkey’s
request, NATO has decided to augment Turkey’s air defence capabilities
in order to defend the population and territory of Turkey and contribute
to the de-escalation of the crisis along the Alliance’s border. We
have agreed to do so within the framework of the NATO integrated air
defence system in order to preserve, protect and enhance the ability to
defend the population and territory of Turkey in accordance with the
NATO standing defence plan.
We welcome the intention of Germany, the Netherlands and the United
States to provide Patriot missile batteries, subject to their respective
national procedures. These systems will be under the operational
command of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR). Any deployment
will be defensive only. It will in no way support a no-fly zone or any
offensive operation.
