Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has voiced concerns over a reported linkage between the export of drone cameras to Turkey and Sweden's NATO membership bid, involving Canada and the United States. In an interview transcript released on Friday, Erdogan highlighted that both Canada and the United States were stipulating that Ankara ratify Sweden's NATO membership bid before Canada resumes exporting drone cameras to Turkey.
During a conversation with reporters while on a flight from Athens on Thursday, Erdogan revealed that the United States had concurred with Canada on this issue. However, he emphasized that the decision regarding Sweden's NATO bid rested with Turkey's parliament, as he had forwarded the bill for consideration in late October.
The background to this situation traces back to Erdogan's remarks at a NATO conference in July, where he hinted at Sweden eventually gaining approval for NATO membership. Following this, Canada, a NATO member, discreetly agreed to reopen discussions with Turkey regarding the removal of export controls on drone components, including optical equipment.
Erdogan expressed Turkey's stance, stating, "On the issue of drone cameras we wanted from them, Canada is insisting: Sweden, Sweden. The U.S. is repeating the same thing."
Turkey, as a NATO member, had submitted a request in October 2021 to purchase 40 Lockheed Martin Corp F-16 fighters and 79 modernization kits for its existing warplanes. While U.S. President Joe Biden's administration supports this $20-billion sale, it has faced objections in the U.S. Congress. Concerns have been raised over Turkey's delay in supporting NATO enlargement by admitting Sweden and over its human rights record.
Erdogan defended Turkey's position, asserting, "If you have your Congress, I have my parliament. You say you will take a step in the F-16 issue after passing through Congress. I also have a parliament. If we are two NATO allies, then do what you have to simultaneously, in solidarity, and our parliament will take the necessary decision."
The Canadian embassy has not yet provided an immediate comment on the matter.
