The Turkish Government regrets that the RF has unilaterally ceased to comply with its obligations stemming from the Conventional Forces in Europe Treaty (CFE) as of 12 December 2007.

In the statement made by NATO, the commitment of the Allies to the CFE Treaty regime with all its elements has been reitirated, the strategic importance of the CFE Treaty as a cornerstone of Euro-Atlantic security has been underscored, the Russian Federation has been urged to rescind its unilateral decision not provided for under the terms of the CFE Treaty, and it has been pointed out that the Allies reserve the right to take any steps provided for by the Treaty and international law.

The Russian decision to “suspend” its obligations is particularly perplexing in light of the multidimensional dialogue carried out with the Russian Federation, offering a constructive way forward that would preserve the integrity of the Treaty with all its elements including the Flank regime, and would allow the ratification of the Adapted CFE Treaty responding to Russian concerns.

Turkey believes that the CFE, together with the limitations imposed by its Flank regime, prevents a concentration of forces in areas where regional conflicts exist, and continues to contribute to the security and stability of all States Parties by ensuring transparency and predictability.

Turkey will continue its constructive dialogue with its CFE partners including the Russian Federation with a view to resolving all outstanding concerns and to fulfilling its obligations under the CFE Treaty.