BRUSSELS
NATO foreign ministers on issued a statement after their decision to deploy Patriot air-defense systems in Turkey against possible attacks from Syria.
"The situation along NATO's south-eastern border and the repeated violations of Turkey's territory raise grave concern. As the North Atlantic Council made clear on June 26 and October 3, we stand with Turkey in the spirit of strong solidarity. We, the NATO foreign ministers, declare our determination to deter threats to and defend Turkey," the statement said.
"In response to Turkey's request, NATO has decided to augment Turkey's air defence capabilities in order to defend the population and territory of Turkey and contribute to the de-escalation of the crisis along the Alliance's border. We have agreed to do so within the framework of the NATO integrated air defence system in order to preserve, protect and enhance the ability to defend the population and territory of Turkey in accordance with the NATO standing defence plan," it said.
