Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has advocated for revitalized relations with the United States, emphasizing the need for enhanced dialogue and cooperation between the two nations. Speaking at the “100 Years of Friendship Gala” in New York, Erdoğan highlighted the positive outcomes from collaboration on international issues, particularly in the Middle East, and expressed Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening ties with Washington.
Erdoğan proposed expanding cooperation in several sectors, including nuclear energy, liquefied natural gas, civil aviation, high technology, and the defense industry. He urged the removal of barriers that hinder cooperation between the two NATO allies and called for increased opportunities for joint defense production. Notably, Erdoğan pointed to Türkiye’s burgeoning defense exports, which have surged from $248 million two decades ago to over $10 billion, positioning the country as a potential top 10 global defense exporter.
The Turkish President also invited U.S. investors to consider opportunities in Türkiye, citing new incentives and a competitive investment framework aimed at attracting foreign investment. This initiative is part of a broader investment drive by Ankara to bolster economic ties with international partners.
U.S. Senator Chris Coons, present at the event, underscored the longstanding partnership between the United States and Türkiye, highlighting the significance of business ties and entrepreneurship in fortifying bilateral relations. The gala brought together senior officials and business leaders from both countries, celebrating a century of diplomatic and economic collaboration.