Update on Turkey’s F-16 purchase from the US
Turkey’s F-16 Purchase Process Update Given by Presidential Spokesperson İbrahim Kalın
Presidential Spokesperson İbrahim Kalın has provided an update on Turkey’s F-16 purchase process from the United States. In his statement, Kalın said that they are currently going towards the approval process and that the acquisition process has been accelerated after Finland’s purchase.
During a television program, Kalın also discussed Turkey’s efforts to prepare for earthquakes in Istanbul. He shared that the Ministry has prepared a detailed earthquake map, and efforts are being made to transform buildings in earthquake-prone areas to be more durable. Furthermore, Kalın stated that the program of the government and the Ministry is clear, and a detailed study is underway for Istanbul.
Regarding foreign affairs, Kalın also discussed Turkey’s stance on protecting its national interests. He emphasized that the first principle is to have allies stand with Turkey on this issue and that NATO has included in its acquis the fight against terrorism as one of NATO’s primary threats.
The spokesperson also talked about the PKK terror group in Sweden, saying that Turkey is only asking Sweden to get rid of the terrorists in their country. Additionally, Kalın addressed the recent controversy surrounding the Turkish Red Crescent’s selling of tents, saying that the initial statement defending the institution was wrong and that there is an urgent need for blood donations.
Finally, Kalın discussed Turkey’s priorities in Syria, which are ensuring border security and the fight against terrorism, the return of refugees, and the execution of the political process.
