Rasmussen: Turkey's voice is essential for NATO

Secretary General of NATO Anders Fogh Rasmussen said yesterday that he considered Turkey as a loyal ally that carries critical importance. In reply to questions from the Turkish media at the NATO headquarters in Brussels, Rasmussen stressed the key role which was played by Turkey during the Cold War as a neighbor of the Soviet Union. “We are in a new security climate following the Cold War and the latest developments indicate that Turkey could play a crucial role. What is happening in North Africa and the Middle East shows how strong a role Turkey could play. Aside from its geographic location, Turkey's historic, cultural and religious ties to the region will make Turkey play a vital role,” Rasmussen said and continued  “I do know that Turkey is strongly attached to our alliance and I appreciate Turkey's contributions to NATO operations. Turkey has made great contributions to NATO operations in the Balkans, Libya and Afghanistan. Turkey has made its territory available for a NATO missile defense system"

Rasmussen emphasised that Turkey has an important role in the alliance and said "Turkey will continue to play an important role for the security of the European Atlantic region. Within this frame, we need Turkey's voice in NATO”.

During the interview Rasmussen stated that NATO had no plans for an intervention in Iran or Syria and called the Tehran administration to act in conformity with its international obligations and the Damascus regime to meet the legitimate demands of its people.

Rasmussen is set to visit Turkey soon on the occasion of Turkey’s 60 years in the alliance.