Meeting between Christodoulides and Rutte on the SAFE Program
October 5, 2025
The meeting between President Nikos Christodoulides and Mark Rutte was organized at the initiative of NATO's Secretary-General. The main topic was Turkey's participation in the EU SAFE program, amid concerns from Ankara regarding its absence. Rutte attempted to advocate for Turkey's request to join, highlighting Turkey's defense needs. The process for Turkey's inclusion is complicated, requiring the consensus of all EU member states. The situation remains tense due to Turkey's relationship with Cyprus and Greece.