Turkey’s intention to cooperate with Italy in the defense sector that will strengthen the Turkish defense industry with Ankara’s ultimate goal of achieving a 100% national defense industry was expressed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The Turkish president made the statements in response to a journalist’s question about the ability of the two countries to work together, among other things, in the defense, while – as he pointed out – Greece is obstructing.

Specifically, the Turkish president was asked: “Mr President, as soon as you referred to the good relations between Turkey and Italy and the reflection of these relations in the defense industry. However, at every step of Baykar, Greece, for example, goes and says, “Well do not do this collaboration with Turkey.” Now Greece is going to buy two frigates from Italy. Did you bring this issue on the agenda during your talks? Mr President, do we have the prospect of developing cooperation with Italy in various sectors, such as shipping, aviation or rocket technology and defense industry? “

Erdogan Answer: “There are great potential for cooperation and joint projects between Italy and Turkey. And one of our areas of collaboration with Italy is the defense industry. … We not only evaluate the opportunities for cooperation in the field of defense industry, but also in high -tech sectors, such as aviation and space. The defense industry is an area in which European countries have recently been focused. “

Continuing, the Turkish president stressed: “We continue our progress. The weapons systems, air, land and naval ammunition and the equipment we develop are watched with great interest from the world. And Italy is also a country with experience in defense industry. The reciprocal exchange of technologies on the one hand will enhance Turkey’s domestic defense industry, on the other hand it will give Italy a new perspective and energy. Our view in this issue is to achieve our goal of a 100% domestic and national defense industry. ”

Referring to Athens’ actions, Erdogan noted: “And with Greece we are trying to develop cooperation on the basis of good neighborhood, friendship and alliance”