Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot made a strong statement regarding Türkiye's essential role in European security during an interview. He stated, "There is no possibility to discuss any European security architecture without Türkiye in it." This assertion highlights the growing recognition of Türkiye as a crucial player in matters of regional stability and security.

Prévot emphasized that over the years, Türkiye has made advancements in poverty reduction and improved living standards, positioning itself as a more significant geopolitical actor than ever before. He expressed a willingness to deepen economic and strategic cooperation between Belgium and Türkiye, pointing to a forthcoming Economic Mission to Türkiye led by Belgian Queen Mathilde from May 10 to 14. The mission expects around 400 participants and aims to sign about 40 agreements across various sectors, including social security, transportation, logistics, and aerospace.

The Belgian Foreign Minister noted that Türkiye has experienced a remarkable 300% growth in its defense sector over the last decade, highlighting the need for increased investment from Turkish companies in Belgium, particularly in biopharmaceuticals. He also spoke about the potential for collaboration in areas such as energy transition and digital assets.

When questioned about whether Europe should try to contain Türkiye alongside nations like Russia and China, Prévot dismissed this idea as "weird." He affirmed Türkiye’s status as a NATO ally and a candidate for EU accession, advocating for the modernization of the EU-Türkiye Customs Union.

Prévot’s comments underlined Türkiye’s proactive stance on critical international issues, including its mediation efforts regarding the Ukraine conflict and its position on Middle Eastern tensions. He portrayed Türkiye as a "like-minded country" that champions multilateralism and territorial integrity, reinforcing its role as a key player in the southeastern flank of the NATO alliance.