France is seeking to rebuild its long-strained relationship with Turkey as Europe’s security environment rapidly evolves. The two countries, historically divided over Syria, Armenia, and the Eastern Mediterranean, are now exploring cooperation. French officials view Turkey as a key pillar in Europe’s future security framework, particularly within the new ‘Coalition of the Willing,’ a non-NATO defense initiative led by France. Ankara’s participation is seen as strategically important for Paris.

Several factors have driven this policy shift. Turkey’s relations with Russia have cooled since 2023, with no bilateral visits between their leaders and Ankara refraining from renewing major gas contracts. Former French ambassador Gérard Araud noted that Turkey’s balanced stance during the Ukraine war impressed many in France. Both nations now share interests in Syria, Lebanon, and Iran, while defense cooperation is expanding through potential arms deals and industrial partnerships.

Ahead of the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, discussions between French and Turkish defense officials have intensified, raising prospects for new agreements. However, mutual distrust and political sensitivities, including issues involving Armenia and Greece, continue to challenge full normalization.