New position for Mehmet Muharrem Kasapoğlu in NATO PA

The Mediterranean and Middle East Special Group of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and the Science and Technology Commission held a joint meeting in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Participating in the meeting was former Minister of Youth and Sports and AK Party Izmir Deputy Dr. Mehmet Muharrem Kasapoğlu was elected as the vice president of the special group. With this duty, Kasapoğlu took part in the management of the group, which discussed the developments in the Mediterranean and the Middle East and aimed to develop dialogue and cooperation between the parliamentarians of allied and partner countries.

'WE WILL CONTINUE TO EXPLAIN Türkiye'S OPINIONS, EXPERIENCE AND PRIORITIES'

Drawing attention to Türkiye's experience in regional security issues in his evaluation of his new position, Kasapoğlu said, "We will continue to explain Türkiye's views, experience and priorities in this position, as in every platform where we represent our country. The developments in the Mediterranean and the Middle East directly concern the security and future of our people. We need to openly talk about our common issues, from the fight against terrorism to the causes of migration, from energy security to regional conflicts, and seek solutions together."

'WE WILL EFFORT TO DEVELOP THE AREAS WHERE WE CAN WORK IN COLLABORATION'

Stating that the contacts between parliamentarians contribute to the strengthening of mutual understanding, Kasapoğlu said, "Alliance requires understanding each other's security concerns and showing solidarity in the face of these concerns. We will continue to share Türkiye's sensitivities in the fight against terrorism and its approach to regional stability with our interlocutors. We will strive to continue the dialogue on issues where there are different views and to develop areas where we can work together."

PARLIAMENTARY DIALOGUE FOR THE MEDITERRANEAN AND MIDDLE EAST

NATO PA Mediterranean and Middle East Special Group carries out studies to improve relations between NATO member countries and parliamentarians of partner countries in the Mediterranean, the Middle East and the Arabian Peninsula. The group addresses political and economic developments in the region, as well as the effects of conflicts, migration and refugee issues on societies. His work also includes energy and environmental issues, as well as the parliamentary dimension of relations established with partner countries within the scope of NATO's Mediterranean Dialogue and Istanbul Cooperation Initiative.

Kasapoğlu evaluated his new duty with the following words: "For permanent peace and stability in our region, countries need to listen to each other and understand the expectations of societies. Parliamentary diplomacy offers an important opportunity to continue these contacts. We will fulfill this responsibility to reflect our country's experience in joint work and contribute to the peace of the people of the region."