ANKARA: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said on Wednesday that Türkiye is prepared to take on greater responsibility within NATO, stressing that stronger burden-sharing among allies is essential to building a more effective and united alliance.

Speaking at a news conference following the conclusion of the two-day NATO summit in Ankara, Erdogan said the meeting had laid the groundwork for a stronger alliance and showcased the solidarity of member states in addressing shared security challenges.

The Turkish leader said he also held talks with US President Donald Trump on expanding defence cooperation between the two countries. According to Erdogan, discussions included potential joint projects involving frigates, submarines and corvettes, reflecting growing military collaboration between the NATO allies.

Erdogan added that the United States had largely lifted defence-related sanctions imposed on Türkiye, describing the move as a positive step toward improving bilateral relations after years of tensions.

The two leaders met at Ankara Airport before the summit and later held formal discussions focused on strengthening political, economic and defence cooperation.

Trump also indicated he was open to selling F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye, although he said no final decision had yet been made. Throughout the summit, the US president repeatedly praised Erdogan, highlighting a notable shift in relations that had previously been strained following US sanctions imposed during Trump’s first administration.

The renewed engagement comes as Washington and Ankara seek deeper defence cooperation and closer coordination within NATO in response to evolving regional and global security challenges.