HELSINKI, Nov 5, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Wednesday underlined Turkey's aim to be part of a European Union defence scheme, citing the country's role as a critical security provider for the EU.

Turkey wants to be part of the bloc's 150-billion-euro ($176-billion) Security Action for Europe (SAFE) -- a mechanism aimed at strengthening European defence capabilities.

Fidan reiterated his country's position at a meeting with his Finnish counterpart in Helsinki.

"Turkey is a NATO ally who provides critical contribution to Europe's security and in this framework," he told journalists.

"It is of great importance that Turkey is included in the EU's defence and security initiatives, including the SAFE mechanism," he added.

Although Turkey is technically eligible to access the SAFE initiative, it requires approval from all 27 EU members -- something Greece has threatened to block.

Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen expressed support for Turkey's participation in the defence scheme "equal terms in defence industry cooperation, which we strongly need at this moment".

A Turkish defence ministry source has said Ankara hopes to secure Berlin's help to access the EU defence scheme despite Greek opposition.