The Turkish Presidency’s Directorate of Communications will host an international panel discussion titled “Burden Sharing and Alliance Cohesion: What to Expect from the Ankara NATO Summit” on July 2, 2026, at the Sheraton Zagreb Hotel in Croatia.

The event is expected to bring together diplomats, security experts, academics, policymakers, and representatives from NATO member states to discuss the key agenda items of the upcoming NATO Summit, which Türkiye will host in Ankara later this year.

According to organizers, the panel will focus on burden-sharing among allies, collective defense responsibilities, regional security challenges, and the future of transatlantic cooperation at a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty. Participants are also expected to examine NATO's evolving security priorities amid ongoing conflicts in Eastern Europe, tensions in the Middle East, irregular migration, cyber threats, and the changing global security landscape.

The conference comes as preparations accelerate for the Ankara NATO Summit, which Turkish officials have described as one of the most significant diplomatic gatherings hosted by Türkiye in recent years. The summit is expected to attract heads of state and government, parliamentary leaders, defense ministers, military commanders, and senior officials from across the Alliance and partner countries.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recently emphasized that the Euro-Atlantic security architecture is facing a historic turning point, underscoring the need for stronger solidarity among NATO allies and more equitable burden-sharing within the Alliance. Ankara has also highlighted its role in regional security, counterterrorism efforts, and mediation initiatives in international conflicts.

The forthcoming NATO Summit in Ankara is expected to address a broad range of issues, including the Russia-Ukraine war, developments in the Middle East, defense industry cooperation, military modernization, energy security, and NATO’s long-term strategic posture. Discussions are also anticipated on strengthening the Alliance’s southern flank and enhancing cooperation between NATO and partner countries.

Officials say the Zagreb event will serve as an important platform for exchanging views and expectations ahead of the summit, while providing an opportunity to assess the challenges facing the Alliance and explore ways to reinforce unity among member states.

The Ankara Summit is widely expected to shape NATO’s strategic direction for the coming years and further highlight Türkiye’s growing diplomatic and security role within the Alliance. (ILKHA)