Meeting of CFCC with the Ambassador of Türkiye His Excellency Ambassador O. Koray Ertaş with Baroness Meyer CBE and Lord Rami Ranger FRSA
Lady Meyer introduced HE describing the strategic partnership framework that existed between the UK and Türkiye covering security defence and counterterrorism. She referred to the £8bn agreement for the sale of fighter jets and the £28 billion bilateral trade. On top of this Turkey and especially Istanbul is a destination for ever more British travellers.
The Ambassador welcomed the CFCC to his Residence. Although this is the second time that the CFCC have visited the Residence it is the first time during his Ambassadorship.
HE contrasted the present day to the relative stability which had existed in early 2000. Today it is hard to foresee how matters will evolve. HE discussed how Türkiye sees the world and Turkish British relations in particular.
Given the fast pace of change it is hard to predict how events will evolve. HE proposed four markers to analyse:
1. More actors are prepared to use force.
2. The nature of military power has changed with technological change. It is now harder for major powers to subdue smaller powers.
3. AI revolutionary change allows risk and disruption.
4. Traditional welfare model is not working and the source of wealth shifts from employment to capital. Climate change, ageing populations and rising energy needs are challenges.
A major factor determining Türkiye’s place in the world is its strategic geography lying on the junction between the Mediterranean and the Black sea and between East and West.
Türkiye seeks resilience, security and autonomy. It is a force for stability in the Middle East with an emphasis on the MECCA defence pact with Saudi and Pakistan. HE emphasised the solidarity with NATO
Türkiye is a major manufacturing base and therefore a destination for foreign investment.
HE mentioned the increased calm in Syria, Caucuses and Libya.
Energy security is a key issue
The relationship with the UK is strategic and is becoming more important for both countries.
HE described how the Eurofighter typhoon contract was not a one-off transaction but involved close consultation with arrangements lasting at least for a generation.
During his speech and during questions afterwards HE stressed the importance of the UK as a destination for Turkish entrepreneurs. There is no other destination in Europe which is so open for business and with a strong connection to the US tech sector.
