In response to our formal request of 21 November 2012 in the light of threats and risks directed against our national security by the ongoing crisis in Syria, the North Atlantic Council has agreed, at its meeting held on 4 December 2012 at the level of Ministers of Foreign Affairs, to augment our national air defence in order to defend the Turkish population and territories and to contribute to the de-escalation of the crisis along the Alliance’s border. In this framework, the North Atlantic Council has welcomed the intention of Germany, the Netherlands and the United States to deploy Patriot batteries in our country.

Within the framework of the Council decision, all Allies have voiced their grave concern regarding the situation along NATO’s southeastern border, and declared their determination to deter threats towards, and to defend, our country. They have also reiterated their commitment to the security of NATO, and their full solidarity and resolve to protect the Allied populations and territories.

Turkey welcomes this decision by NATO Foreign Ministers, which was taken as a consequence of the consultation process initiated by the North Atlantic Council meetings on 26 June and 3 October upon our request within the framework of Article IV of the North Atlantic Treaty. This decision is important, as it demonstrates and re-confirms Allied solidarity and unity in practical terms.

The measures to be taken are in no way offensive. These measures are defensive and aim to augment our national air defence.

These defensive measures have nothing to do with the establishment of a no-fly-zone. The locations in which these assets will be deployed are determined in light of the necessary military-technical analysis.

Turkey will continue the initiatives she has been undertaking with a view to solve the Syrian crisis through peaceful ways, with the same resolve as before.