Rutte visits ‘good friend’ Erdogan, but no support yet for NATO leadership | Abroad

Rutte spoke after a good conversation. “It is important to understand that counter-terrorism is an essential part of Turkey’s membership of the alliance,” Rutte told NU.nl. The Prime Minister emphasized that he did not have to make any promises or concessions to Turkey on that point because of his candidacy.

Rutte had words of praise for Erdogan and Turkey. He called the president “a good friend” and described Turkey as a “crucial ally.” “Especially given Turkey’s difficult neighbors, it is important that we have Turkish leadership in that part of the world to keep NATO’s southern flank safe.”

In addition to combating terrorism, Erdogan emphasized the importance of solidarity within NATO. The president said that there can be no restrictions or sanctions between member states. When Turkey bought Russia’s S-400 missile system in 2017 despite criticism from NATO, the country was hit with US sanctions. Canada did not supply weapons to Turkey for several years.

Rutte and Erdogan further discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip. The president reiterated his message that Turkey wants a permanent ceasefire there as soon as possible. The war in Ukraine was also discussed.

However, Erdogan’s redeeming word about Turkish support for Rutte’s candidacy failed to materialize. Erdogan wished Rutte good luck with the further course of his campaign for NATO leadership. Rutte did not want to make any statements “due to the sensitivity of the conversations” about the reason why Turkey is still keeping him in the waiting room.

Rutte can already count on the support of 28 of NATO’s 32 member states. The most important support comes from Washington, because in practice the Americans have by far the most influence within NATO. Support from the United States usually proves decisive, but the appointment ultimately requires approval from all member states.

In addition to Turkey, Slovakia, Romania and Hungary also have to agree. With their President Klaus Iohannis, the Romanians have Rutte’s only remaining competitor in the race for NATO leadership. The most resistance is expected from notorious obstructionist Viktor Orbán, the president of Hungary. That country is the only country that has publicly spoken out against Rutte’s candidacy.

According to Rutte, no further visits are planned to seek support for his candidacy, “not even with Orbán”.

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