UAE-Türkiye Defence Industry Cooperation Forum Strengthens Partnerships In Defence Sector

The Emirates Defence Companies Council (EDCC) and the Turkish Defence and Aerospace Cluster Association (OSSA) recently organised the "UAE-Türkiye Defence Industry Cooperation Forum." This event aimed to enhance collaboration and share expertise in the defence sector between the UAE and Türkiye. Supported by the Ministry of Defence and Tawazun Council, it took place at the Tawazun Defence Hall with officials from both nations present.

During the forum, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between EDCC and OSSA. This agreement aims to boost cooperation among defence and security companies in both countries. The MoU also includes plans for joint events, seminars, and bilateral meetings to foster strategic partnerships. The forum served as a platform for discussing opportunities and challenges in the defence industry.

Leading companies showcased their specialised services and achievements at the forum. Representatives from various units of Tawazun Council presented their services. Emirati and Turkish companies also displayed their defence products and solutions. Mona Ahmed Al Jaber, Chairwoman of EDCC, highlighted the importance of UAE-Türkiye relations, noting promising opportunities for local companies to collaborate with Turkish counterparts.

Al Jaber expressed enthusiasm about expanding partnerships between UAE and Turkish firms to advance in defence, security, and advanced technology sectors. She stated, "The UAE- Türkiye relations are built on a long history of partnership and have witnessed a significant growth across various sectors. We have exceptional opportunities to explore the capabilities of Emirati and Turkish companies in defence and security, exchange ideas, and forge fruitful partnerships in multiple fields."

Ibrahim Yarsan, Chairman of OSSA, emphasised the strategic importance of strengthening defence ties between Türkiye and the UAE. He remarked that "The UAE represents a key partner in our efforts to expand internationally, particularly in the defence and aviation sectors." Yarsan highlighted OSSA's focus on enhancing competitiveness among its 320 member SMEs through collaborations beyond traditional partnerships.

Yarsan further added that by combining Türkiye’s manufacturing strength with the UAE’s technological prowess, they aim to create joint ventures that enhance capacities while developing innovative solutions for global markets. He said, "By leveraging the strengths of both countries – Türkiye’s robust manufacturing base and the UAE’s advanced technological capabilities – our goal is to develop joint ventures that not only enhance our respective capacities but also create innovative solutions for the global defence market."

The forum underscored potential benefits from knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and co-developing products. These initiatives aim to give both nations a competitive edge in international defence projects. The collaboration seeks to lead advancements in defence and aerospace industries globally.

This event marked a significant step towards deepening bilateral cooperation in vital sectors such as defence. It highlighted shared goals of building sustainable partnerships that contribute positively to both countries' strategic interests.

With inputs from WAM