Türkiye and France have solidified their defence and security partnership with a newly signed road map aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation. This strategic agreement includes initiatives such as intelligence sharing, air defence, military training, and the development of joint defence industry projects, according to Türkiye’s Defence Ministry.
The framework established by this road map is intended to foster a structured approach to cooperation, rooted in mutual interests. It outlines plans for regular security consultations and increased coordination to counteract hybrid threats, alongside efforts to improve compatibility between the two nations’ defence systems. Additionally, the agreement encompasses joint training and capacity-building activities in third countries to bolster regional stability.
Military collaboration will also be expanded through personnel exchanges between military academies, port visits, and exercises involving land, naval, and air forces. Furthermore, Türkiye and France are set to pursue joint defence projects, promote technology and information sharing, and enhance cooperation between their defence industries. Bilateral defence meetings will be held alternately in each country’s capital, with the first meeting planned for the end of 2026.
In a separate development, Türkiye has voiced criticism of Israel’s military actions in southern Syria. Rear Admiral Zeki Aktürk, spokesperson for the Defence Ministry, accused Israel of violating the 1974 Disengagement Agreement through activities such as excavations and road expansions near the Quneitra separation line. Aktürk urged the international community to take steps to safeguard regional peace and stability.
Türkiye is also making efforts to build confidence with Greece, with military delegations from both countries continuing dialogues under their 2026 Confidence-Building Measures Implementation Plan. These initiatives are part of broader efforts to enhance regional security and cooperation.
On the issue of border security, the ministry reported the surrender of a PKK member during the past week. Turkish security forces have apprehended 660 individuals attempting illegal border crossings and prevented another 1,383 from crossing. Since the start of 2026, authorities have detained 13,366 people attempting unauthorized crossings and stopped 53,870 others from entering illegally.