"First of all, I am very pleased to have the opportunity to visit Saha Expo and meet with partners and friends from Ukraine. Today, [October 22], several contracts were signed between the relevant entities in this industry. And Ukraine is undoubtedly among the leaders here. It is important to understand this, and everyone acknowledges it. I am convinced that in the future, and even now, we will surprise the world with our achievements. This industry is strategically significant for the economy and has a multiplier effect. Paradoxically, the war also has a second side: it drives and accelerates the development of certain military technologies. And Ukraine is currently at the forefront of such development," he noted.
Sibiga, speaking at the exhibition opening, urged partners to take advantage of "the unique opportunities of Ukraine." When journalists asked what exactly the minister meant, he explained that it pertains to the testing of weapons in combat conditions.
"Our international partners clearly understand that today Ukraine possesses one of the absolutely strategic advantages, namely, the ability to urgently test manufactured defense products in the battlefield. And this is extremely valuable. Everyone understands this, and we are approached with requests to share feedback, our knowledge, and experience, of course, on a mutually beneficial basis, jointly developing technologies," Sibiga explained.
He mentioned that Ukraine currently needs air defense systems, and Kyiv is also interested in drone suppression systems and electronic warfare systems.
"There are such manufacturers here in Turkey as well. Most importantly, there is a strong interest from Turkish companies to cooperate specifically with Ukraine. After all, we also have something to offer so that this collaboration is mutually beneficial, allowing us to produce systems that help protect our soldiers, people, and children. Today, many companies producing relevant products and showing interest in working together with Ukrainian partners are represented here [at Saha Expo]," Sibiga added.
He stated that Kyiv could adopt Ankara's successful experience in the defense industry.
"Turkey, with the efforts of its defense industry, currently meets more than 80% of the army's needs. I believe this is a very good ambition for us to realize together. To make Ukraine more independent and self-sufficient in producing defense-related products on its territory, with its partners. And to reduce our dependence on critical product supplies from our partners, especially under the conditions of aggression from the Russian Federation," Sibiga emphasized.