Türkiye-Sweden Security Mechanism Meeting to Focus on Fighting Terrorism
The Türkiye-Sweden Security Mechanism is set to convene in Ankara on Tuesday, bringing together the foreign ministers of both countries with a primary focus on combating terrorism.
Participants in the Meeting
Attending the meeting will be Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard, and Swedish Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer, as confirmed by diplomatic sources.
Türkiye's Expectations
During the discussions, Fidan will communicate Türkiye's expectations regarding the PKK/YPG and FETÖ, emphasizing the importance of taking concrete actions against these terrorist organizations and putting an end to their funding and propaganda activities.
Concerns on Rising Far-Right Sentiment
Additionally, Türkiye will express concerns about the increasing far-right, racist, and anti-Islam sentiments in Europe, urging for a more robust stance against these movements.
Criticism of Western Indifference
Turkish officials have been vocal in their criticism of Western countries for their perceived indifference and, in some cases, the promotion of far-right ideologies, particularly in nations like the UK, France, and Germany, where significant Muslim populations reside.
Roots of Anti-Muslim Racism
Experts often attribute the persistence of anti-Muslim racism to the decline of liberal democracy and a lack of investment in combating Islamophobia, with some even suggesting that certain governments have normalized discriminatory rhetoric.
Seeking Increased Cooperation
Fidan will express Ankara's desire for a new era of collaboration following the removal of restrictions on Türkiye's defense industry.
Memorandum of Understanding and Counterterrorism Efforts
A memorandum of understanding signed at a NATO summit in Madrid, together with Finland, outlines commitments to address shared concerns, enhance efforts against terrorist groups, and facilitate the deportation of individuals linked to terrorism.
Delay in Sweden's NATO Membership
Türkiye withheld its support for Sweden's NATO membership ratification for over a year due to Stockholm's alleged backing of terrorist organizations such as the PKK and FETÖ, known for its violent actions against the Turkish state.
Sweden's Response
In response, Sweden has taken steps to bolster its counterterrorism laws and enhance security measures to address the concerns raised by Türkiye.
