Doha: European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas has proclaimed the upcoming NATO Summit in Ankara on July 7-8 as "truly historic." She emphasized Turkiye's pivotal role within the alliance and the critical need for transatlantic unity amidst increasing security challenges.

According to Qatar News Agency, Kallas expressed to Anadolu Agency (AA) that Turkiye is a strategic partner in areas such as migration, defense, and regional stability. She noted the current strain on transatlantic relations, emphasizing the summit's importance in projecting a unified stance.

Kallas highlighted the summit's agenda, which includes discussions on expanding defense industrial production, bolstering NATO's defense and deterrence capabilities, and enhancing support for Ukraine. She dismissed the concept of a unified European army, advocating instead for joint defense procurement among EU member states due to the prohibitive costs of developing certain military capabilities individually.

Addressing Turkiye's significance in Europe's security landscape, Kallas pointed out the nation's possession of NATO's second-largest military and its sophisticated defense industry, underscoring its essential role as an ally.

Regarding the Middle East, Kallas condemned Israel's actions, particularly the violence by extremist settlers and ongoing settlement expansion, which she argued are undermining the feasibility of a two-state solution. She reiterated the European Union's commitment to supporting a two-state resolution.